When to Harvest Pumpkins

When to harvest pumpkins & how long to leave pumpkins (Latin name - Cucurbita pepo) growing in the garden is a problem, particularly when they will be needed for Halloween at the end of the month. The pumpkins are in danger of being caught by an early frost, or developing some rot, if left out in the garden. But can they be safely stored inside, so that they last for the important date?

Harvest Pumpkins:

• when the shell has hardened completely
• do not damage or break off the stem
• handle the pumpkin carefully to avoid bruising

Store Pumpkins, to avoid chances of post-harvest rots:

• out of the sun
• in cool, dry conditions
• on padding, which will not sweat
• if storing for a long time, wash the pumpkin in a solution made up of 1 part chlorine bleach and 9 parts water. Then dry.

Pumpkins handled gently and stored correctly will keep in good condition for Halloween.