It is often the style when growing a new plant by diving right in and planting the plant in order to establish a baseline. In the attempt grow a pumpkin patch, we see the results from growing in native (clay) soil. Looking ahead to next year, we will (in the meantime) be providing the growing area with compost material in an effort to improve the soil. Additionally, we hope to make the soil an hospitable environment for earthworms.

In terms of space usage & permaculture, growing vining plants on top of the grass is meant to reduce the watering needs of the grass during the hot and dry months. The idea is to invest water on the pumpkin plants. The plants will provide shade to the grass and the soil underneath. In turn, less water is required to keep the grass happy.