Pumpkins are a staple fibre of autumn ribbon and a beloved seasonal treat . It ’s no wonder that many Washington nurseryman desire to plant their own autumn pumpkin patches ! But when should you commence imbed your autumn pumpkin in Washington , and what do you need to roll in the hay about successfully grow them ? Read on for a comprehensive guide on when to plant Cucurbita pepo in Washington , including information about the state ’s USDA hardiness zones , different pumpkin variety and their uses , and how to care for your pumpkin vine plot of ground .
Washington’s USDA Hardiness Zones and Climate
Washington ’s climate is intemperately affected by its geographic location . The commonwealth is fraction into several USDA hardiness zones , ranging from Zone 4 to Zone 9 . The character of pumpkin you opt and when you plant your autumn pumpkin patch will bet largely on the zone you live in . Generally , the strong zone are good for growing pumpkins , but there are some varieties befit to cooler climates . Pumpkins grow best in zones 3 - 7 but can grow in any hardiness geographical zone . Find yourWashington hardiness zone here .
When and How to Start Pumpkin Seeds Indoors
For the best results , you should go your pumpkin seeds indoors . This gives them a foreland start and ensures they ’ll be ready to transplant as soon as the weather warms . Start your pumpkin seed indoors 4 to 6 workweek before the last Robert Frost . Plant your seeds one column inch deep in peat pots filled with a dirt mix , and keep the soil moist but not marshy . Be sure to move your pumpkin outdoors once the weather warms and all danger of frost has passed .
Different Varieties of Pumpkins and Their Uses
When choose a pumpkin variety , you ’ll have plenty of options . Some of the most democratic pumpkin kind for Washington include ‘ Jack - O - Lantern ’ , ‘ Sugar Pie ’ , ‘ Cinderella ’ , ‘ Ghost Rider ’ , and ‘ verrucose Goblin ’ . All of these varieties are well - suited for the clime and soil in Washington and make great additions to your pumpkin patch .
Caring for Your Pumpkin Patch
Successfully farm pumpkins in Washington requires paying attention to the soil , sunlight , water , and fertiliser your Cucurbita pepo require . The soil should be well - draining and rich in constitutive matter . Cucurbita pepo need at least 8 minute of sunlight per solar day and should be watered deeply and consistently . inseminate your pumpkins every few weeks with a balanced fertiliser .
When to harvest Pumpkins in Washington
pumpkin vine in Washington typically mature in recent September and October . The ideal clip to harvest is when the pumpkins are a deep , whole color and the skin is hard and difficult to puncture . To check for preparedness , press a fingernail into the skin . If it does not infiltrate easy the pumpkin is quick for harvest . If you are able to deflate the skin , the pumpkin ask more metre on the vine .
