In North Carolina, the best time to plant pumpkins is from early May until about mid-June if you are planting seeds directly in the soil. This timing ensures the soil temperature is warm enough (at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit) and the threat of frost has passed, providing about 90 to 120 days for the pumpkins to mature before cooler fall temperatures arrive. The last frost date in most parts of North Carolina is in April, so planting in May gives pumpkins the best chance of fully maturing before the temperature drops below 50 degrees.

In the Piedmont region of North Carolina, planting pumpkin seeds around the week of the 4th of July is also recommended for a successful fall harvest, as pumpkins take about 90-110 days to mature. Planting earlier than this may expose seeds to intense early summer heat, while planting later than mid-July may shorten the growing season too much for pumpkins to ripen properly.

For most home gardeners in North Carolina aiming for a fall harvest, either late May to mid-June or early July are good times to plant pumpkins depending on the local climate zone within the state.

Summary:

• Early May to mid-June is a general planting window for most of North Carolina.
• In the Piedmont region, the week of July 4 is ideal.
• Avoid planting before frost is over and soil temperature is at least 60°F.
• Planting too late (mid-July or after) risks pumpkins not fully ripening before fall frost.

This timing ensures pumpkins will be ready for harvest in early to mid- October, perfect for fall decorations and cooking traditions.