Pumpkins are a warm-season crop, so plant pumpkin seeds once the weather reliably stays warm and frost is past. A practical rule is to start seeds when daytime temperatures are around or above 70°F (21°C) and nighttime temperatures are consistently frost-free, then give them enough time to reach maturity before the first autumn frost. Here’s how to time it depending on your goals and location:

• General timing for mid-late spring planting
  • In many regions, sow seeds directly outdoors after the last expected frost and when nighttime temps are reliably above 50–55°F (10–13°C). For cool-summer areas, you can start seeds indoors 2–4 weeks before the last frost and transplant when conditions are warm enough. Plan for a full growing season (about 80–120 days to maturity for many varieties) from transplant or direct sow.
• For Halloween or fall display (short growing seasons)
  • Count backward from your target display/harvest date by 95–110 days (typical maturation range for many pumpkins) plus 7–14 days for curing if you plan to store them. Plant earlier in spring to ensure enough time to mature before frost.
• Staggering for variety and extended harvest
  • If space and conditions permit, stagger plantings in 1–2 week intervals to extend your harvest window.

Key location-based ideas

• In zones with hot summers and late frosts, plant later spring through early summer to align with mature fruits by fall.
• In cooler or shorter seasons, start seeds indoors and transplant after outdoor temps have warmed to the 70°F range, then allow extra days for growth before frost.
• If you’re aiming for edible pumpkins rather than decorative gourds, you can adjust curing times and harvest once fruits are fully mature and have a hard rind.

Practical steps

• Prepare rich, well-draining soil with compost.
• Sow seeds 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep, with ample space between plants or rows (pumpkins need room to spread).
• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during germination and early growth.
• If you’re unsure about frost dates, monitor local frost forecasts and be prepared to start indoors and transplant once conditions stabilize.

If you’d like, share your location (zip code or general region) and your target Halloween date, and the exact pumpkin variety you’re growing, and the timing can be tailored precisely with days-to-maturity estimates and a calendar you can follow.