Whether growing them for pie or jack-o-lanterns, pumpkin plant care is much like other gourds. They require a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day (or 12-14 hours of indirect sunlight). Pumpkins also need well-draining soil and about an inch of water a week. Water the plants deeply, but avoid the leaves to reduce disease risk. Some pumpkin varieties climb if you give them a trellis or other support, helping manage smaller growing spaces.
Pests and disease concerns are similar to squash and cucumbers. Watch for signs of aphids, squash bugs, stink bugs, vine borers, downy mildew, anthracnose and blossom-end rot. Proper care, mulching and cleaning up debris will reduce the chances of these hazards.