Pumpkins (Cucurbita spp.)
How about growing your own pumpkin patch!? It’s a wonderful activity to get the entire family involved and nothing brings the kids more joy than watching the pumpkins grow day by day while waiting for Halloween! You'll find that some pumpkins are great for eating, while others make perfect front porch decorations.
Details
Plant type: annual
Spread: 6-8’
Site: full sun
Days to maturity: 95-110 days
Plant spacing: 18-30”
Pinch: not necessary
Kids, Pets and Deer: non toxic, deer resistant
Indoor & Pots: does not grow well in pots
How to Grow
Transplant: Sow 2-3 seeds per individual container about 3 weeks before your last frost date.Thin with scissors to 1 plant per container. Harden plants off and transplant outside after the danger of frost has passed.
Direct Seed: Sow in late spring when soil is at least 70°F and all danger of frost has passed. Sow 2 seeds 1/2-1" deep every 18-30” apart. If planting multiple rows, space your rows 4-5 feet apart.
Germination: 5-10 days at 75-95°F.
Where to plant
Plant in a sunny spot, in fertile, well-drained soil.
Harvest
Pick when the color of the pumpkin is fully developed. Fruits can tolerate 1-2 light frosts, however, temperatures below 28°F (-2°C) can damage them. Take care not to damage the skin/rind. Sun cure in the field for 5-7 days or cure indoors by keeping fruits at 80-85°F (27-29°C) with good air ventilation. Bring white pumpkins out of direct sunlight to avoid yellowing.
Store at 50-60°F with 50-70% relative humidity and good ventilation.