How Do You Grow Pumpkins From Seeds?
It is amazing how many varieties of pumpkin seeds there are. When deciding what variety to grow, the first factor to consider is your growing zone (see Resources). This will determine which types of pumpkins grow best in your area, as per seed package information. Pumpkin varieties are also categorized as the best ones to carve, the best for farmers markets and the best for canning and cooking. There are regular sized pumpkins, as well as giant and miniature varieties. Start your pumpkin seeds indoors, if you live in a location with a short growing season. You can get a two-to-three week advantage when you start seeds in containers inside. Use store-purchased peat pots, or plastic cups, recycled from yogurt or butter. Fill the containers with potting soil and cover them with 1 inch of soil. Use a mister to keep the soil moist, and set them in a sunny window sill. Plant them outdoors after the last frost. Prepare a rich soil mixture in your garden for your pumpkin seeds. Mix in compost