Saving Heirloom Pumpkin Seeds: Cross-Pollination Risks

Open-Pollinated but Risky

Australian Blue pumpkin is open-pollinated, but if other pumpkins or zucchini are nearby, cross-pollination will produce variable offspring.

Ensure Purity

Hand-pollinate to maintain true type: Pumpkin Hand Pollination

Planting in SW Missouri (Zone 6)

• Direct sow after April 10 (or warm soil with black plastic from March).
• Or start indoors 6 weeks before last frost (not before March 1).
• Keep seedlings cool (70°F) for slower, sturdier growth.