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When should I harvest my pumpkins?

Question
When should I harvest my pumpkins?

Answer

Anytime before the first hard frost. A variety called hard-shelled maximas can handle light frost, but all others should be harvested before the temperature drops to 32°F. As harvest time approaches, pinch out plant leaders and flowers, and remove small green pumpkins that have no chance of ripening. This will help the remaining pumpkins along.