Jack O Lantern Pumpkin Seeds

Sowing: Gardeners with short growing seasons may want to start their Jack O Lantern pumpkin seeds indoors a month before the last expected frost. Since pumpkins do not take well to transplanting, peat pots are the best option. Plant two seeds per pot, later clipping off the weaker seedling. Harden the seedlings by exposing them to the weather for several hours at a time during the week before transplanting. About a week after the last frost or when the soil temperature reaches an average of 15.5 degrees Celsius, plant the seedlings in very rich soil spaced 240-300 centimeters apart in rows 300-365 centimeters apart. Another option is to plant the seedlings in hills of two, spaced 240-300 centimeters apart. To direct sow, plant the seeds a week after frost 1.3 centimeters deep, spaced 90-120 centimeters apart and thin to 240-300 centimeters apart. For companion planting benefits, plant orange pumpkin seeds along with corn but avoid planting them with potatoes.

Growing: Since pumpkin seedlings do not tolerate frost, provide protective coverings if cold weather threatens. Keep the soil moist at all times, but avoid getting the leaves wet as this can cause diseases such as rot or mildew. When the vines begin to develop, a layer of mulch will help conserve moisture and control weeds; mulch also will keep the pumpkins clean and protect them from too much soil contact. By midsummer, pinch off all the blooms to concentrate the plant's energy on the developing pumpkins.

Pumpkins can be harvested as soon as the stem begins to dry and the skin becomes too hard to pierce with a fingernail. Because cold weather can damage pumpkins, they should be harvested before the first frost. Cut the stem with a sharp knife, leaving a 5-7.5 centimeter length. Do not carry the pumpkin by the stem; if the stem breaks off, use it as soon as possible, since this causes the pumpkin to deteriorate quickly. Cure the pumpkins in the sun or a dry location until the stem shrivels; do not wash pumpkins you intend to store. If kept in a 7-10 degrees Celsius location with moderate humidity, most pumpkins will last for up to 5 months. As the name indicates, Jack O Lantern pumpkins perform best for carving.

By the time the pumpkin has been cured, the seeds are mature. Cut the pumpkin open, remove the pulp and seeds, and rinse off the pulp. Put the mixture in a bowl of water to remove the remaining pulp; the good seeds will sink. Remove the good orange pumpkin seeds and spread them out to dry for 2-3 weeks, stirring them at times to make sure they dry completely. Store the Jack O Lantern pumpkin seeds in a cool, dry place for up to 4 years.

Planting Methods: Indoor, Outdoor

Blooming Season: Mid to Late Summer

Planting Season: Late Spring to Early Summer

Latin Name/USDA Zones: Cucurbita pepo/ While USDA Hardiness Zones are primarily for perennials, Jack O Lantern Pumpkins, being annuals, lack specific zone assignments. For perennial plants, check your USDA zone for compatibility. Jack O Lanterns, grown as annuals, rely more on local climate, frost dates, and growing season length rather than USDA zones.

Sunlight Required/ Height: Full Sun/ 30-60 cm

Shelf Life After Test Date: The shelf life of Jack O Lantern Pumpkins after the test date varies. Uncut pumpkins can last for several weeks to a few months if stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once cut, their shelf life is significantly reduced, typically ranging from a few days to a week. To prolong freshness, refrigerate cut portions and wrap them in plastic. Regularly check for signs of spoilage, such as mold or off odors, to ensure the pumpkins remain suitable for consumption.

Can I Grow Pumpkin Seed Sprout: Yes, you can grow Jack O Lantern Pumpkin seed sprouts! Soak the pumpkin seeds overnight, plant them in soil or a sprouting tray, and keep them consistently moist. In a few days, you'll have nutritious and flavorful sprouts ready for use in salads, sandwiches, or as a healthy snack.

Seed Type: Heirloom, Non-GMO

Soil Type: Loam Soil