Infrogmation of New Orleans / CC BY-SA 3.0
garden
Pumpkin
Cucurbita mixta
Overview
A sprawling vine that produces the iconic orange gourds of autumn, pumpkins are deeply woven into harvest celebrations and food traditions across the Americas. Beyond the jack-o'-lantern, pumpkins offer nutritious flesh for pies, soups, and breads, and their seeds are a protein-rich snack packed with zinc and magnesium. Giant pumpkin growing is a competitive sport, with current records exceeding 2,700 pounds.
Growing Conditions
Hardiness Zones5 — 12
Height1.67m
Spread2.49m
Growth HabitVine
Pollinator Valuemoderate
Companion Planting & Soil
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Soil pH6 — 7
Soil TypeRich, well-drained, loamy soil with plenty of compost
Planting Calendar
When to sow, transplant, and harvest by growing zone.
| Zone | Action | Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold (1-2) | Start Indoors | May — May | Start 2-3 weeks before last frost |
| Cold (1-2) | Transplant | Jun — Jun | Transplant gently; roots are sensitive |
| Cold (1-2) | Harvest | Sep — Sep | Harvest when rind is hard; before hard frost |
| Cool (3-4) | Direct Sow | May — Jun | Direct sow after last frost |
| Cool (3-4) | Harvest | Sep — Oct | Harvest when deep color; stem dried |
| Moderate (5-7) | Direct Sow | May — Jun | Direct sow; needs 90-120 days |
| Moderate (5-7) | Harvest | Sep — Oct | Leave 4" stem for storage |
| Warm (8-9) | Direct Sow | Mar — Apr | Count back from desired harvest date |
| Warm (8-9) | Harvest | Jun — Aug | Summer harvest |
| Hot (10+) | Direct Sow | Feb — Mar | Early spring sowing |
| Hot (10+) | Harvest | May — Jul | Early summer harvest |
Uses
Culinary
- Pureed for pies, soups, and breads
- Seeds roasted with salt and spices as pepitas
- Cubed and roasted as a side dish
Medicinal
- Seeds rich in zinc for immune and prostate health
- Beta-carotene supports eye and immune function
- Seed oil traditionally used for bladder and prostate support
Other Uses
- Autumn decoration and jack-o'-lantern carving
- Competitive giant pumpkin growing
- Three Sisters companion planting tradition
