Dickinson - Pumpkin Seeds

Direct sow after frost danger has passed, the soil has warmed to at least 65°F, and nights are reliably mild. Cold soil slows germination and increases the chance of seed decay.

In short-season climates, start seeds indoors about 3–4 weeks before transplanting. Avoid starting too early, since large seedlings become root-bound and transplant poorly. Choose varieties with enough time to mature before the first expected hard freeze.

Sow seeds about 1 inch deep. Plant two or three seeds together and thin to the strongest seedling after emergence, or sow individually at the final spacing.

Bush and compact types may need 3–4 feet between plants, while vigorous vines often need 4–6 feet or more. Allow ample room between rows, or guide vines along bed edges where they will not smother neighboring crops. When transplanting, handle the roots gently and plant at the same depth they grew in the pot. 

Choose a site with full sun and fertile, well-drained soil enriched with finished compost. Mulch after the soil has warmed to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and protect developing fruit from direct contact with damp ground.

Water deeply and consistently, especially during flowering and fruit enlargement, while keeping the foliage as dry as practical. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can produce vigorous vines with fewer flowers and fruit. Pumpkins and squash depend on insects to carry pollen between separate male and female flowers, so keep flowering habitat nearby and avoid disturbing pollinators.

Harvest when the fruit has reached its mature color, the rind resists a fingernail, and the stem has become dry and corky. Cut rather than pull the fruit, leaving several inches of stem attached, and handle carefully to avoid bruises or broken stems.

Gather the crop before a hard freeze. Cure sound fruit in a warm, dry, well-ventilated place for about 7–10 days, then store it in a cool, dry location with good airflow. Do not store damaged or soft fruit with sound keepers.