Harvesting Pumpkins Early and Deterring Squirrels

Pumpkins picked early will ripen orange in sun but won't grow larger. Squirrels are the likely culprit.

Squirrel Deterrents

• Human hair or dog fur around beds.
• Cayenne pepper on fruit and foliage (reapply after rain).
• Hardware cloth cages over individual pumpkins.
• Live-trap and relocate (check local laws).

Combine methods for best protection.