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Growing pumpkins is almost a tradition in this country as the pumpkin is a symbol of harvest and of Thanksgiving. Depending on the part of the country you live in, pumpkins can be successfully grown in most soils. They much prefer a very rich, loose soil however for optimum growth. Most varieties require 90 to 121 days from the day you plant to the day you harvest.

You can plant your pumpkins for decoration purposes, for eating, or for both. Pumpkins are easy to grow if you have well drained soils. They do not do so well in garden spots that do not drain well so plant on a high spot or the sandiest soil you have.

Selecting your varieties is difficult as there are so many interesting ones out there now. The most commonly planted variety is the Connecticut Field pumpkin. This is the one for medium sized Jack-o-lantern fruits. Sugar Baby is the most common pie pumpkin and they are small and plentiful. There are many other varieties available. The most beautiful, in my opinion are the yellow varieties. White pumpkins are also available and they are wonderful to add to Halloween decorations. If you cannot decide this is what I do: I buy a few varieties and mix them together. This is why.

I have found that when mixing these varieties, the ones suited for my particular area are the ones that tend to do the best. Therefore I have a guaranteed crop of at least two of the varieties I have chosen. Plus, you have variety in the garden and there is the element of surprise!

To get a fall harvest, you can plant in the month of June, otherwise you will have to store your pumpkins for weeks until they will be used for decorations. Of course, if you're going to cook them and preserve them, it does not matter when you plant them. There is a local tradition of planting in the full moon of June. I've always followed it and its always worked for me! July is also a possibility in the southern states, or even August, if you can keep the seeds well watered until they germinate. This way you get pumpkins maturing in the field in October.

If you have difficulties your first year, add compost and some sand to your soil for the following year. Pumpkins will grow anywhere in reasonable soil but do best in a loose soil with some sand in the mix. The only disadvantage is they take up a lot more space than you think. To me, planting pumpkins is a fun and satisfying hobby, especially if you have little ones around to come and pick out a pumpkin for their own!

Learn more about this author, Brenda G. Koscelny.
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