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Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin Seeds for Sale from Gurney's
Choosing the Right Pumpkin Seeds
When selecting pumpkin seeds for your garden, first consider your space. Vining pumpkins take up a lot of room&mdas;about 50-100 square feet per hill. If you don't have that much space, you might consider a semi-bush and bush pumpkin variety, as they take up less space. Next, consider how you want to use your pumpkins. Some varieties are best for making pies, while others are showy and best for decorations or carving. Some are dual purpose and good for both. If growing pumpkins for large pumpkin contests, choose our gigantic varieties.
Getting Started with Pumpkin Seeds
You can grow pumpkin seeds throughout much of the United States--and by timing your planting right, most gardeners can grow pumpkins for Halloween.
How to plant pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds are planted in hills that are spaced about 6 feet apart. In each hill, plant 4 or 5 seeds at a depth of 1 inch. Water well. When the seedlings are established, thin to 2 plants per hill.
When to plant pumpkin seeds
Pumpkins are a tender vegetable, and pumpkin seeds require warm soil to germinate. The plants do not tolerate frost. In most parts of the county, pumpkin seeds are planted in late May to early June.
How to grow pumpkin seeds
Once plants are growing, keep the hills and areas around them free of weeds. If an extended dry period occurs, water the vines. Also, keep in mind that bees are required for pollination and could be killed by the use of insecticides.
How to harvest pumpkin seeds
Pumpkins are usually ready for harvest in the fall, before heavy frosts. When harvesting pumpkins, wear gloves to protect your hands from the prickly stems. Use a knife to cut the pumpkin stems about 3-4 inches from the pumpkin. Pumpkins with stems store longer than pumpkins without stems. Store the pumpkins in a warm, dry place.
The flesh of pumpkins can be made in soups, pies, desserts and other recipes. Some cooks puree the pumpkin for a smoother texture. The pumpkin seeds can be roasted for a tasty snack.
