pumpkin

Best Planting Times for Pumpkins in West Virginia

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Indoor PlantingStart Seeds IndoorsApril 15 – May 15
Outdoor PlantingTransplant OutdoorsMay 15 – June 15
Direct SowingDirect Sow OutdoorsMay 15 – June 15

Planting Conditions

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

West Virginia’s climate is primarily humid continental, with USDA Hardiness Zones ranging from 5a to 7a. The state’s mountainous terrain means that higher elevations generally experience cooler temperatures and shorter growing seasons compared to the lower-lying areas. The southern and eastern regions, which warm up earlier in the spring, typically begin planting first, while the northern and higher elevations may start slightly later.

Start pumpkin seeds indoors from mid-April to mid-May to give your plants a strong start. Once the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures have warmed to at least 70°F, transplant the seedlings outdoors. Direct sowing is also recommended from mid-May to mid-June.

Average Last Frost Dates for West Virginia’s Largest Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
CharlestonApril 30
HuntingtonApril 25
MorgantownMay 5
ParkersburgApril 25
WheelingMay 5
WeirtonMay 5
FairmontMay 5
BeckleyMay 15
MartinsburgApril 30
ClarksburgMay 5

Average First Frost Dates for West Virginia’s Largest Cities

CityAverage First Frost Date
CharlestonOctober 20
HuntingtonOctober 20
MorgantownOctober 10
ParkersburgOctober 20
WheelingOctober 10
WeirtonOctober 10
FairmontOctober 10
BeckleyOctober 1
MartinsburgOctober 20
ClarksburgOctober 10

Please note: These dates are averages and can vary from year to year.

Timing the Harvest for Halloween

In West Virginia, planting pumpkins between mid-May and mid-June will ensure they are ready for Halloween. Pumpkins typically take 90 to 120 days to mature, depending on the variety. Planting by mid-June ensures they’ll be ready by late October.

Harvesting Tips

  • Monitor Growth: 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 your pumpkins consistently, especially during dry spells. 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:

  • Watch out for pests like squash bugs, cucumber beetles, and aphids, which are common in West Virginia’s climate. Organic methods or integrated pest management can help protect your plants.
  • Monitor for powdery mildew and other fungal diseases, especially during humid periods. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce disease risks.

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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