Understanding how long pumpkins take to grow will help you plant them at the right time.

From jack-o'-lanterns on the porch to festive table controls,pumpkins are quintessentialto autumn decor.

How Long Do Pumpkins Need To Grow?

Pumpkin Growing on Vine

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Different varieties take different amounts of time to ripen.

The miniature ‘Jack Be Little’ pumpkin matures in as little as 85 days.

Plant varieties that take longer to mature in May, and faster developing varieties by mid-June.

What Is the Best Way to Care for Pumpkins?

Pumpkins are relatively easy to grow when given the right conditions.

Pumpkins need room as well as sun to thrive.

Aim to space pumpkin seeds 4-6 feet apart when planting, and use the seed packet as your guide.

Choose an area with moist, loamy soil where the vines can spread.

double-check your pumpkin patch gets an inch of water each week and avoid wetting the leaves.

When Are Pumpkins Ready To Harvest?

Pumpkins are mature when their color has fully developed and the rind has hardened.

A ripe pumpkin will sound hollow when you thump on it.

Often, the stem will also start to harden and dry.

In cooler climates, pumpkins can be left in the garden until a light frost kills the vines.

Be sure to harvest before a deep freeze.

Show off your crop by displaying your pumpkins on thefront porchor on your dinner table.

To preserve your pumpkin varieties,spray uncarved pumpkins (that you dont plan to eat) with WD-40.

Dip carved pumpkins in a mixture of one tablespoon of bleach per quart of water.

A smear of petroleum jelly on the pumpkins interior will also help it last.