How to Grow Pumpkin

Sow Pumpkin seeds directly in the garden 6 weeks before your last frost date. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

Pumpkin typically matures in about 100 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Pumpkin does best when direct sown outdoors. Plant seeds directly in the garden at the appropriate time based on your local frost dates.

Pumpkin requires full sun (6-8 hours) to thrive.

Space Pumpkin plants 60 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

Pumpkin has regular (1 inch/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Pumpkin is rated moderate. Allow fruit to fully mature and cure — ripe pumpkins have the most viable seeds. Scoop seeds from mature pumpkin, rinse off stringy flesh, spread flat to dry for 2 weeks.

Properly dried and stored Pumpkin seeds remain viable for up to 4 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Yes — Pumpkin is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.