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Image: agil73 / Getty ImagesPumpkins are a hallmark of fall, and knowing the right moment to pick them ensures your autumn celebrations are complete. Timing is crucial when harvesting pumpkins to guarantee their quality and longevity throughout the season.
“Pumpkins picked prematurely won't have developed the tough skin needed to store them properly," explains Jonathan Nardone, a gardening enthusiast and blogger at The Real Gardener, who specializes in vegetable crops like cucurbits. "On the other hand, those left too long can become overripe, risking damage and decay.”
Harvesting pumpkins at the ideal time can keep them fresh for two months or more, bringing the Halloween spirit to life. Here, gardening experts share their best advice on how to determine the perfect time to pick your pumpkins and make the most of your vibrant fall season.
Indicators That Your Pumpkin is Ready for Harvest
Wondering when to pick pumpkins? There are a few important clues to look for on the pumpkin's skin and leaves that can tell you it's time to harvest.
Deep Color
Your pumpkin should have fully developed its intended color. “The skin should reach its characteristic hue (usually a deep orange) and become firm,” notes Nardone. “It should resist being dented when pressed with a fingernail.”
Dull Skin Texture
Young pumpkins often have a glossy skin, but it's best to wait until the surface turns dull and matte, indicating the pumpkin has reached full maturity.
Sturdy Stems and Fading Leaves
Farmer Steve Jacobsen, owner of the Solvang Farmer Pumpkin Patch in Solvang, California, highlights another sign to look for: the dying back of the canopy.
The leaves and stems of the pumpkin plant, known as the canopy, serve as protection during the growth period. As the pumpkins mature, the canopy begins to fade, revealing the ripened fruits. The stems become hard, dry, and brown, while the vine’s leaves start to shrivel. These are clear signs that your pumpkins are ready for harvest.
“If you harvest a green pumpkin and place it in direct sunlight, it may burn but won’t ripen properly. The protective canopy of leaves shields the pumpkin, and when the plant and leaves begin to wither and fall away, the pumpkins underneath will be exposed and ready for harvesting,” explains Jacobsen.
The Tap Test
You can perform a simple tap test on your pumpkin. Nardone suggests tapping it and listening for a hollow sound. This sound signifies that the pumpkin has ripened and is ready for picking.
Harvest Timing
Typically, pumpkins can be harvested in the fall if planted in late spring or early summer. They generally reach maturity between 90 to 120 days after planting.
The type of pumpkin and the weather conditions play a significant role in determining harvest time. Warm weather accelerates pumpkin growth, while cooler temperatures delay ripening. “Heat will speed up the growth, and cold will slow it down,” explains Jacobsen.
One thing you should definitely avoid is procrastination—Nardone warns that leaving pumpkins on the vine too long can lead to various problems.
“Overripe pumpkins are more likely to attract pests and diseases, and they may rot on the vine, especially if exposed to early frosts or excessive moisture,” says Nardone. “The flesh can become soft and less ideal for eating or carving.” It's best to harvest your pumpkins before the first frost hits.
Tips for Curing and Storing Pumpkins
After harvesting pumpkins, curing them in a dry location will maximize their shelf life. This process allows the skin to harden and helps them last longer. A warm, sunny spot is perfect for curing your pumpkins.
“Curing your pumpkins after harvest is a crucial process for improving their longevity and quality,” says Nardone. “This involves storing the pumpkins in a warm, well-ventilated area for 10 to 14 days, allowing the skin to harden completely and any minor damage to heal. This not only extends shelf life but also enhances the flavor, especially if you're cooking them.”
If you're planning to use your pumpkins for cooking, such as in pies or other dishes, harvesting them at the right time ensures the perfect sugar content, giving your recipes the ideal flavor.
After curing, move your pumpkins to a cool, dry location. Avoid placing them near heat sources like stoves or fireplaces. Pumpkins thrive in shady spots. “Cool, dry conditions are perfect for storing pumpkins indoors,” advises Jacobsen. “When stored properly, pumpkins can last up to eight or nine months, especially the larger varieties.”
