Organic Winter Luxury Pumpkin - Cucurbita pepo

this amazing variety has been holding on strong and we are excited to be featuring it! Seed Profile Organic Non-GMO Annual Sun : Full Indoors: 6 weeks before last frost Direct Sow : After last frost Seed Count : 20 Days to Maturity : 70-75 Plant Size : 6'-10' vines Gardener Tips Thin to healthiest seedlings. Thrives in cool weather. Amend with compost. Apply mulch at base. Place fruits on boards to protect from moisture. When starting seeds indoors, it is key that your new starts be hardened off. This is a process that requires taking them outside during the day, for a period of time, before they are planted. This acclimates your seedlings to the outside world, meaning the elements like the wind and sun. We do it for several weeks to a month as this strengthens their stems and overall plant structure. Start for a short period of time initially, then graduate to more time each day One week minimum is recommended Bring them inside in the early evening and overnight Keep an eye on them and constantly water them. Make sure they have not blown over. Harvesting Tips Harvest Winter Luxury pumpkins when the fruits are fully mature, typically 90–105 days after planting. Signs the pumpkin is ready Rind turns a rich golden-orange color. The rind becomes hard and difficult to pierce with a fingernail. The vine and stem near the fruit begin to dry and turn brown. The pumpkin develops its characteristic fine netted skin. How to harvest Use sharp pruners or a knife to cut the pumpkin from the vine. Leave 3–4 inches of stem attached to improve storage life. Avoid carrying pumpkins by the stem to prevent breakage. Curing for storage Cure pumpkins in a warm, dry place (80–85°F) for about 7–10 days. After curing, store in a cool, dry location with good air circulation. Storage Tips Properly cured Winter Luxury pumpkins store well and are prized for their smooth, sweet flesh, ideal for pies, baking, and soups.