Connecticut Howden Field Pumpkins - Seeds - Non Gmo - Heirloom Seeds – Pumpkin Seeds B50

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Howden pumpkins are a member of the Cucurbita pepo family and are an heirloom variety dating back to pre-Columbian times. Howden pumpkins are usually round with a deep orange hue, making them perfect for Jack-o-lanterns. A smooth skin, symmetrical proportions, and a thick handle all lend to the traditional “Halloween” look of the Howden pumpkin. They produce high yields of 15–25-pound pumpkins that are as easy to carve as they are pleasant to look at. Like most pumpkins, Howden pumpkins prefer heat so you should aim to plant when temperatures have warmed the soil to at least 65 degrees. Plants are large, with vines that reach up to ten feet.

Howden is the traditional old-time Halloween favorite. The 20–30 pound, intensely bright orange pumpkins have defined ribs and strong handles for jack-o'-lanterns. Large spreading 10 foot vines produce 4–6 carving pumpkins per plant.

Direct seed 2–3 weeks after the last spring frost when weather is warm and settled. Plant seed 1 inch deep, 3 seeds grouped together every 8–24 inches, allowing 24–36 inches between rows for squash; or 24–36 inches apart and 36–60 inches between rows for pumpkins. Thin to one plant per spot.

Count: ~50
Soil Temp for Germ 65–85°F
Seed Depth 1"
Days to Emergence 5–10
Soil Temp for Transp 60°F
Plant Spacing 3–4'
Row Spacing 4–6'
Fertilizer Needs High
Minimum Germination 75%
Seeds per Gram Listed per variety
Seed Life 3 years
Cucurbita spp. This traditional ornament of the autumn harvest is good for much more than jack-o-lanterns and pies. High in fiber and essential minerals, their colorful orange flesh signifies an abundance of the antioxidant beta-carotene.

Days to maturity are calculated from date of direct seeding.

Culture
• Pumpkins require uniform irrigation totaling 15-20 inches of water during the growing season
• Bee attractant flowers or beehives will help yields — misshapen or non-developing fruit is often the result of poor pollination

Direct Sowing
• Plant after frost danger when soil warms to 65°F
• Work in shovelful of compost and 1/2 cup TSC's Complete fertilizer into hill
• Keep soil evenly moist but not wet as too much moisture causes seed to rot
• Bush varieties: sow 3-4 feet apart
• Vining varieties: sow 4-5 feet apart

Transplanting
• Start indoors 3-4 weeks prior to anticipated transplant date in 4 inch pots
• Work in shovelful of compost and 1/2 cup TSC's Complete fertilizer into hill
• Transplant carefully as to not disturb roots

Insects & Diseases
• Common insects: Cucumber beetles and squash bugs
• Insect control: Pyrethrin
• Common diseases: Various wilts, leaf spots mildews, and various viral diseases
• Disease prevention: 3-4 year crop rotation, and fungicide applications

Harvest & Storage
• Leave on vine until fully mature, rinds should be firm
• Pumpkins can tolerate a light frost, but must be protected from a hard frost
• Dry gourds: Wash gently in a solution of 10 parts water and 1 part bleach, carefully removing all dirt, then store in a warm, dry location
• Store at 55-70°F and 70% relative humidity

KEY TO PUMPKIN DISEASE RESISTANCE AND TOLERANCE
HR indicates high resistance.
IR indicates intermediate resistance.
PM | Powdery Mildew