Pumpkin Seeds (Heirloom)

Grow the Best Heirloom Pumpkins Right at Home

Autumn is the nicest time of year for a variety of reasons. Autumn delivers mild mornings and balmy afternoons, as well as the garden's most abundant harvest when plants reach full maturity. Heirloom pumpkins, however, are unquestionably the most magical of all the fun fall activities—for kids of all ages. Pumpkins may appear to be a daunting endeavor for new and experienced gardeners alike due to their space requirements, but they are surprisingly simple to cultivate.

How to plant Heirloom Pumpkin Seeds

Heirloom pumpkins should be straight sown after the last frost has passed and the soil temperature has reached at least 65°F. Because most cultivars require 80 to 120 days to mature, you may wish to grow pumpkins indoors and transfer them outside to give the plants a head start in colder locations. Sun and well-drained, rich soil are ideal for heirloom pumpkins. Because they are vining plants, they will take up a lot of room in your garden, so place them in an area where they can spread. Give each plant a 20-foot buffer zone, or else they may suffocate your other garden residents.

Build mounds of dirt while sowing heirloom pumpkins to boost the warmth and improve drainage. Plant three to five seeds per mound and thin seedlings to two as they develop. All gourds require water, so water the pumpkins deeply when they require it—not so much that the soil becomes drenched all of the time, but don't skip watering when the soil becomes dry to the touch.

Heirloom Pumpkins are beautiful and healthy

Before going into the oven, heirloom pumpkins keep well and may be used as house or porch décor. Vitamins C and E, iron, and folate are abundant in the flesh of heirloom pumpkins. Pumpkin seeds are high in antioxidants, magnesium, iron, and zinc, and are a great source of protein and fiber. Heirloom pumpkins are a lovely, nutrient-dense food that taste good too!

Pumpkins are deserving of a spot in your yard and on your autumn table. This season, save time and money by growing your own heirloom pumpkins! There are twelve varieties to pick from at Eden Brothers, so you won't be disappointed.

For more information about planting, growing, and harvesting heirloom pumpkin seeds, see the Pumpkin Seeds Planting Guide.