pumpkin

Best Planting Times for Pumpkins in Delaware

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Indoor PlantingStart Seeds IndoorsMarch 15 – April 15
Outdoor PlantingTransplant OutdoorsApril 15 – May 15
Direct SowingDirect Sow OutdoorsApril 15 – May 15

Planting Conditions

Hardiness zone map image credit  The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) 

Delaware’s climate is characterized by its humid subtropical conditions, falling within USDA Hardiness Zones 7a to 7b. The state’s coastal and southern regions typically warm up earlier, so planting generally begins first in these areas. Northern parts of Delaware may start planting a bit later, around mid to late April.

Starting pumpkin seeds indoors from mid-March to mid-April gives your plants an early advantage. Once the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures have reached at least 70°F, transplant the seedlings outdoors. Direct sowing is also an option from mid-April to mid-May.

Average Last Frost Dates for Delaware’s Largest Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
WilmingtonApril 15
DoverApril 10
NewarkApril 15
MiddletownApril 15
SmyrnaApril 15

Average First Frost Dates for Delaware’s Largest Cities

CityAverage First Frost Date
WilmingtonOctober 25
DoverOctober 20
NewarkOctober 25
MiddletownOctober 25
SmyrnaOctober 25

Please note: These dates are averages and can vary from year to year. Monitoring local weather forecasts is important to ensure a successful planting and growing season.

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Useful Tools for Starting Pumpkins Indoors

Using the right tools can save you time and increase your success rate.

Seeds

Quality seeds lead to better germination and healthier plants. Starting with high-quality seeds gives your pumpkins the best chance to thrive from the very beginning.
Seeds Image
Browse Pumpkin Seeds on Amazon

Planting Trays

Planting trays help you organize your seedlings and ensure they have enough space to grow before you transplant them outdoors. This makes the process more efficient and increases the chances of strong, healthy plants.
Planting Trays Image
Find Planting Trays on Amazon

Grow Lights

Grow lights are essential if you don’t have enough natural sunlight. They provide your seedlings with the light they need to grow strong and healthy, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Grow Lights Image
Check out Grow Lights on Amazon

Seed Starting Soil

Using light, fine soil specifically designed for seed starting helps young roots establish quickly and promotes healthy growth. It’s an easy way to give your seedlings the best start possible.
Seed Starting Soil Image
Get Seed Starting Soil on Amazon

Greenhouse Growing

In Delaware, where the climate can be unpredictable with cold winters and hot summers, a greenhouse is essential for creating a stable environment for your pumpkin plants. It allows you to extend the growing season by starting your plants earlier in the spring and protecting them from sudden weather changes, ensuring a more productive harvest.

If you grow pumpkins in a greenhouse or polytunnel, though, you should be aware that pumpkins take up a lot of space. You can reduce the amount of space required by training vining pumpkins up a vertical frame or trellis.

Currently, the 8x10x7.5 FT Greenhouse is priced at $999. It’s a great investment for ensuring your pumpkins thrive all year round.
Greenhouse Image 1
Greenhouse Image 2
Check the latest price on Amazon.

Fertilizer

Fertilizer is essential to provide your pumpkin plants with the nutrients they need for strong growth and a successful harvest.
Fertilizer Image
Explore Fertilizer on Amazon

Other planting guides for Delaware:

Any questions on growing pumpkins? Visit our forum to discuss: Growing Pumpkins

Timing the Harvest for Halloween

To have pumpkins ready for Halloween, plant them between mid-April and mid-May. Pumpkins typically take between 90 to 120 days to mature, depending on the variety. Planting by mid-May ensures they’ll be ready for harvest by late October.

Harvesting Tips

  • Watch the Pumpkins: Regularly check your pumpkins as they grow to ensure they are maturing properly.
  • Cut the Pumpkin: Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the pumpkin from the vine, leaving a few inches of stem attached. This helps with storage.
  • Cure the Pumpkins: Cure pumpkins in a warm, dry spot for about a week to toughen the skin and improve storage life.

Pumpkin Plant Care Tips

Watering:

  • Water consistently, especially during dry periods. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged to avoid root problems.

Fertilizing:

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time and again when the vines start to spread. Adding compost to the soil before planting helps improve soil quality and moisture retention.

Pest and Disease Management:

  • Keep an eye out for pests like squash bugs and aphids. Using organic methods or integrated pest management can help protect your plants.
  • Monitor for powdery mildew, especially during humid periods. Ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can reduce the risk of disease.

Harvesting Pumpkins:

  • Harvest pumpkins when they have developed a deep color and the skin is firm. This ensures they are mature and ready for storage.

Smart Tip: Don’t throw away the seeds from the pumpkin after Halloween. Instead, save them and have free pumpkins year after year.

BeeJay
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