Connecticut Field Pumpkins

The most traditional pumpkin is the Jack-o-Lantern or as it is officially known, the Connecticut Field Pumpkin. They typically grow to 10 and 20 pounds, are bright orange and are perfect for Halloween carving. They are not especially good for eating, they are plain tasting and not very sweet and can be a bit watery if using for pie. However, this is the most common choice of home gardeners and commercial growers. (right) My Jack-o-Lantern pumpkin from Halloween 2008. (below) The pumpkin patch at Baggenstos Farm.

Growing Tips: All pumpkin varieties prefer full sun, at least 6 hours of direct each day. Soil should be kept moist but not wet. Most pumpkins require 110 - 140 frost free growing days, see the Starting from Seed section below for proper planting dates.

Starting from Seed: Pumpkins are tender annuals so note that frost will kill them and cold weather will stunt their growth when starting plants. Soak your seeds the night before planting to make sprouting easier and faster. Plant pumpkin seeds in the middle of small mounds (mounds should be 10 feet apart from other mounds) that are about 3 feet in diameter. Surround each mound with a moat, about 4" wide and 4" deep to help contain water around the roots. Plant 4 - 5 seeds in a circle in the middle of the mound, space seeds 6 - 8 inches apart and cover with at least 1" of soil so the birds don't eat them. After two weeks, thin to two or three of the strongest and largest plants per mound. When to plant your seeds:

• Giant Pumpkins: Start indoors from April 25 - May 15, transplant after the first true leaves form, provide cold and frost protection.
• Jack-o-Lanterns and Field Pumpkins: Directly sow into the garden from May 15 - June 15, provide cold and frost protection, if needed.
• Miniature Pumpkins: Direct sow into the garden from May 15 - July 1.