Connecticut Field Pumpkin Seeds

Originally from the Northeastern United States, the Connecticut Field pumpkin is one of the oldest varieties of pumpkin still being cultivated today. It is said to have been grown in the region for centuries. The pumpkins are known for their large size and adaptability to cool and humid climates. The vines can get quite large in the garden, up to 15-20 feet long, so prepare ample space in the garden.

Connecticut Field pumpkins reach 15-25 pounds and have a round shape and thick orange flesh with a smooth texture. The flavour is sweet and nutty, with slightly earthy undertones. Connecticut Field pumpkins are usually used to make pumpkin pie, pumpkin bread, sauces and purées and the seeds also are excellent roasted and salted. This heirloom is a popular choice for pumpkin patches and pumpkin carving. It will also add a touch of rustic beauty to your fall décor arrangements.

- Latin Name: Curcubita pepo
- Life Cycle: Annual
- Days to Maturity: 110
- Planting Depth: 2 cm
- Plant Spacing: 90 cm
- Row Spacing: 1.5-2 m
- Growth Habit: Vine

GROWING INSTRUCTIONS

Pumpkins are the quintessential, if unofficial, icon of autumn. Not only are they the embodiment of the fall, pumpkins are supremely nutritious and can be used in a number of ways. But to have a successful fall crop, vines and fruit must have long, hot seasons with space to spread out.

Sow seeds directly when soil temperatures reach 21°C. Pumpkins won’t tolerate cold. Pick a site with full sun and mix in plenty of compost ahead of planting. The bed should be of rich and well-drained soil, as pumpkins are heavy feeders. Seeds can be planted into small mounds, where the soil will stay warmer and drain well. Plant 4-5 seeds/mound 3 cm deep. Leave 1-2.5 m between mounds. With temperate soil, seeds should germinate in about a week.

When sprouts are 5-8 cm tall, thin to 2 or 3 vines per mound. Pumpkins will require a bit of water, at least 3 cm/week, and more when fruiting. Mulch around the plants to retain water and protect the shallow roots. Be careful not to harm roots when weeding or cultivating. Pruning and pinching the ends of vines are good strategies to concentrate energy into set fruit.

Choose a dry day to harvest. Pumpkins will store best when harvested fully mature. When fruit is deep orange and the skin is thick and firm, use a pair of clippers to cut the pumpkin from the vine. Leave a long stem to increase shelf life. Cure pumpkins for a couple weeks under the sun. After curing, store in a cool dry place, somewhere around 10°C.

Whether you want a canvas to carve spooky faces or bake homemade pies for Thanksgiving, make space for pumpkins in your home garden.

QUICK FACTS

- Native to North America, pumpkins are one of the oldest domesticated plants, having been cultivated as early as 7,500 BC.

- Pumpkin is a popular Halloween and Thanksgiving staple, and a traditional part of the fall harvest.

- Pumpkin seeds will remain viable for 4 years if stored in a cool, dark place, ideally between 4 and 10⁰C. After that, the germination rate may start to go down.