Timing Pumpkin Planting for Halloween Harvest

“Days to harvest” on seed packets counts from germination, not sowing or transplant. Pumpkins need 100–115 days from emergence to maturity.

When to Start Seeds

• Start indoors 2–3 weeks before last frost (early April in Michigan).
• Use biodegradable pots to avoid root disturbance.
• Transplant after soil warms to 60°F+ and frost danger passes.

Will They Be Ready by October?

If planted by early June, pumpkins should mature by late September. A light frost won’t harm mature fruit. Starting too early (late March) risks leggy, weak transplants. Restarting in late April is safer for a Halloween crop.