When to Plant Pumpkins

Avoid a pumpkin fail: learn the perfect planting window.

Our own summary of the original — the full post and photos live at hgtv.com.

Plant pumpkins after the last spring frost when soil reaches 70°F. This timing ensures a Halloween harvest without frost damage.

About this

Plant pumpkins after the last spring frost when soil reaches 70°F. This timing ensures a Halloween harvest without frost damage.

Planting season for pumpkins hinges on knowing what kind of pumpkins you’re growing. Traditional carving types need roughly 120 days, while miniature varieties need only 90 days.
Look on the seed packet for 'days to maturity' to determine when to plant.
For most jack o’lantern, carving, and pie pumpkins, plant seeds between May 15 and June 15 based on your area’s average last spring frost.
Miniature pumpkins can be planted from May 25 until as late as July 1, depending on first fall frost.
If you have a short growing season, start seeds indoors up to two weeks before your projected planting date using biodegradable pots.

About this