Cucurbita spp.

Pumpkin

This traditional ornament of the autumn harvest is good for much more than jack-o-lanterns and pies. High in fiber and essential minerals, their colorful orange flesh signifies an abundance of the antioxidant beta-carotene.

Shop Now

The Growing Guide

Soil Temp for Germ 65–85°F
Seed Depth 1"
Days to Emergence 5–10
Soil Temp for Transplant 60°F
Plant Spacing 3–4'
Row Spacing 4–6'
Fertilizer Needs High
Minimum Germination 75%
Seeds per Gram Listed per variety
Seed Life 3 years

Get the Basics

More About The Seeds & Plants

More About

Cucurbita spp.

Days to maturity are calculated from date of direct seeding.

Culture
• Pumpkins require uniform irrigation totaling 15-20 inches of water during the growing season
• Bee attractant flowers or beehives will help yields — misshapen or non-developing fruit is often the result of poor pollination

Direct Sowing
• Plant after frost danger when soil warms to 65°F
• Work in shovelful of compost and 1/2 cup TSC's Complete fertilizer into hill
• Keep soil evenly moist but not wet as too much moisture causes seed to rot
• Bush varieties: sow 3-4 feet apart
• Vining varieties: sow 4-5 feet apart

Transplanting
• Start indoors 3-4 weeks prior to anticipated transplant date in 4 inch pots
• Work in shovelful of compost and 1/2 cup TSC's Complete fertilizer into hill
• Transplant carefully as to not disturb roots

Pests & Diseases
• Common pests: Cucumber beetles and squash bugs, stink bugs
• Pest control: Pyrethrin
• Common diseases: Various wilts, leaf spots mildews, and various viral diseases
• Disease prevention: 3-4 year crop rotation, and fungicide applications

Harvest & Storage
• Leave on vine until fully mature, rinds should be firm
• Pumpkins can tolerate a light frost, but must be protected from a hard frost
• Dry gourds: Wash gently in a solution of 10 parts water and 1 part bleach, carefully removing all dirt, then store in a warm, dry location
• Store at 55-70°F and 70% relative humidity

KEY TO PUMPKIN DISEASE RESISTANCE AND TOLERANCE
HR indicates high resistance.
IR indicates intermediate resistance.
PM | Powdery Mildew

Staff Picks

Our Team’s Favorite Pumpkin This Season

If you love pumpkin pie, this is your pumpkin. Loved for its sweet, smooth flesh, the Small Sugar Pumpkin is our "employee favorite." Easy to grow and consistently productive, it’s perfect for pies, roasting, and baking. Its dependable harvests and rich flavor make it a standout in both the garden and the kitchen.

SMALL SUGAR

Vegetable | pumpkin | pie

From $6.95

Cucurbita pepo 110 days. An heirloom, Small Sugar pumpkins have very smooth-textured, bright orange flesh and the finest flavor for making mouthwatering pies. Vines develop 4–6 round, orange, slightly ribbed, 7 inch diameter, scrumptious wonders. Approximately 6 seeds per gram.