How to Grow a Small Sugar Pumpkin in a Container

Drill several holes in the bottom and sides of the container. This will allow proper drainage for your pumpkin plants.

Line the bottom of the container with small stones to prevent the soil from eroding.

Add potting soil to the container. Fill to within 1 inch of the top. Mix fertilizer into the soil in the method suggested on your fertilizer's packaging.

Place your pumpkin seeds in a bowl and soak them overnight in water. Drain.

Create a large mound with your potting soil mixture in the center of the container. The mound should be about 3 feet in diameter. Dig a trench around the bottom of the mound to assist with water collection.

Plant five seeds 6 inches apart in the center of the mound. Cover securely with soil and water gently with a watering can.

When the seeds have grown into seedlings, thin the seedling from six to only two to help ensure a healthy crop. Pick the healthiest two seedlings to keep.

Once the plants have grown to about 2-inch vines, place a trellis near the container to encourage the vines to grow up it. Wrap the vines around the trellis daily for about a week and then they should wrap around it on their own.

Water your plants daily, enough to keep them moist but not flooded. Fertilize weekly. When your pumpkins begin to emerge, wait until they are a dark orange color before harvesting. Harvest by cutting through the stem, several inches above the fruit itself, with a sharp knife.