Pumpkin Seed
Cucurbita pepo • Cucurbitaceae
🌱 Seed Category
Vegetable
🌍 Origin Region
North America and Mesoamerica, widely cultivated globally
📅 Days to Maturity
90 to 120 days from direct sowing to maturity, depending on the specific cultivar.
🌡️ Hardiness Zones
Typically grown as a tender annual across USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9.
About This Seed
The seeds are flat, oval-shaped, light cream to yellowish-white in color with a smooth yet slightly fibrous texture. The resulting plant is a sprawling vine with large, lobed leaves, vibrant yellow flowers, and large round orange fruits.
Growing Information
Growing Season
Spring and Summer, direct sow after all danger of frost has passed
Germination
Germinates in 7 to 10 days at a soil temperature between 70°F and 90°F. High germination rate. Requires darkness to germinate and no pre-treatment is necessary.
Planting Instructions
Plant seeds 1 inch deep, spaced 2 to 3 feet apart in rows that are 4 to 6 feet apart. Prefers rich, well-draining loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun, at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Needs consistent moisture, about 1 inch of water per week, with low drought tolerance once established.
Companion Plants
Beneficial companions include corn, beans, radishes, and marigolds. Avoid planting near potatoes.
Special Characteristics
Produces edible seeds, edible flowers, and decorative fruit. Highly attractive to pollinators.