Aksaray Pumpkin Seed

Aksaray Pumpkin Seed is a product derived from summer squash of the species Cucurbita pepo L., evaluated as a snack and offered for consumption in either processed or unprocessed form. The product was officially registered on 12 February 2021 by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office under the designation “Geographical Indication,” with its geographical boundary encompassing the districts of Merkez, Gülağaç, Güzelyurt and Ortaköy in Aksaray Province.

^{Aksaray Pumpkin Seed} (AA)

Aksaray Pumpkin Seed is typically white in color, with a glossy surface, an average width of 11–12 mm and length of 20–21 mm. Its bulk weight is 380 g or more per hectolitre in raw form and 400–410 g per hectolitre in processed form. Protein content ranges between 30–32%, moisture content between 7–9%, and oil content between 39–42%.

The varieties commonly used, such as “Kadın (Hanım) Tırnağı” or “Sivri Kabak,” stand out due to their high yield potential, ease of trellising and low rate of damage. The seeds have a homogeneous structure and high fullness ratio. Under dry conditions, yields range from 60–80 kg per decare, while under irrigated conditions, yields reach 120–150 kg per decare.

As squash plants have deep roots, the soil must be deeply plowed in autumn. Manure (4–6 tons per hectare) or well-composted poultry or pigeon manure (1–2 tons per hectare) is applied during autumn. In spring, the soil is worked with a harrow and cultivator to prepare the seedbed.

Sowing is carried out using a pneumatic seeder when soil temperature reaches 10–12 °C (late April to early May). In irrigated fields, rows are spaced 75–80 cm apart with plant spacing of 25–30 cm within rows. Clean, disease-free and dry seed at a rate of 0.9–1.2 kg per decare is used.

Weed control is performed by hoeing. The first hoeing is done when the plant reaches the three- to four-leaf stage, and the second hoeing follows three to four weeks later. As the plant grows rapidly and covers the soil surface, a third hoeing is unnecessary.

Since the roots of the plant can extend up to 1.5–2 meters deep, it can grow in dry areas. However, yield increases by 30–40% under irrigated conditions. Irrigation begins after fruit set and is recommended every 1.5–2 weeks from this stage onward. Sprinkler irrigation is applied 4–5 times per year.

Mature fruits are harvested when their stems turn brown and left to dry in the field for several days. Seeds are separated using automated harvesting machines and dried in the sun with regular turning until moisture content reaches 7–9%. The dried product is stored in sacks in dry warehouses.

^{Aksaray Pumpkin Seed Harvest (}Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of the Republic of Türkiye⁾

The districts of Merkez, Gülağaç, Güzelyurt and Ortaköy in Aksaray Province.

An inspection body consisting of at least three representatives from the Gülağaç District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry and the Aksaray Branch of the Chamber of Agricultural Engineers under the coordination of the Aksaray Chamber of Commerce conducts inspections at least once per year.