Pumpkin – Jack O Lantern

Pumpkin – ‘Jack O Lantern’

• Growing Temp 70°F – 90°F

• Days to Maturity 90-100 days

Ease of Cultivation and Halloween favorite: The Jack O Lantern pumpkin is a classic variety renowned for its bright orange color and perfect shape for carving. This pumpkin is relatively easy to grow, making it a popular choice among gardeners of all skill levels. With adequate sunlight and space, Jack O Lantern pumpkins can flourish and are ideal for creating festive decorations during the Halloween season. They can also be cooked or used in recipes, making them versatile in the kitchen.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant the seeds outdoors after the last frost date when the soil temperature has warmed to at least 70°F. Sow the seeds 1 inch deep and space them 3-4 feet apart in rows that are 5-6 feet apart. Germination usually occurs within 7-14 days. Keep the soil consistently moist, and use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. As the plants grow, support the pumpkins by placing them on a bed of straw to prevent rot.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: For an early start, sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost. Use seedling trays filled with quality potting mix, placing 1-2 seeds per cell. Maintain a temperature of 70-80°F to encourage germination. Once seedlings have developed their first true leaves and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden, spacing them 3-4 feet apart. Water them well after planting and apply mulch to help retain moisture.

Harvesting: To determine when Jack O Lantern pumpkins are ready for harvest, look for pumpkins that have a deep orange color, a firm rind, and a stem that has begun to turn brown. This usually occurs around 90-100 days after planting. Carefully cut the pumpkins from the vine, leaving a few inches of stem attached. Harvested pumpkins can be stored in a cool, dry place for several months, making them perfect for Halloween decorations and culinary uses.