Howden

Pumpkin

Zone 2a Save Garden

🌱 105d to harvest Vine

Sink your senses into Howden’s rich, warm presence—an impressively deep, ribbed pumpkin with a thick, durable rind that feels sub…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Jul 6th
Last Frost	May 25th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jul 20th
Harvest Begins	Nov 2nd
Harvest Ends	Aug 29th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	105
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Vine
Support Needed	Trellis
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	85
Min Soil Temp (°F)	65
Min Night Temp (°F)	55
Harden Off (days)	10

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Cucurbita pepo (Howden squash), and how can I control it?

Cucurbita pepo is commonly hit by powdery mildew, which shows up as a white, powdery coating on leaves and can quickly reduce yield. Water the soil (not the foliage), space plants for airflow, and remove badly infected leaves early. If pressure is high, use a labeled fungicide targeted for cucurbit powdery mildew and apply at the first signs of coating so it doesn’t spread through the canopy.

How often should I water Howden (Cucurbita pepo) during the main growing phase?

During active vine and fruit growth, keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged—aim for about 1–2 inches of water per week depending on heat and rainfall. Water deeply at the base in the morning, then let the top few inches of soil dry slightly before the next watering. Consistent moisture helps prevent misshapen fruit and blossom-end issues, while soggy soil encourages root problems.

How do I tell when Howden (Cucurbita pepo) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when the rind is fully hardened (hard to pierce with your fingernail) and the fruit has a deep, uniform color typical of the mature squash. The stem should start to dry and the fruit should feel heavy for its size; mature fruits also tolerate handling better. Pick before frost, since damage from cold can shorten storage life.

Sink your senses into Howden’s rich, warm presence—an impressively deep, ribbed pumpkin with a thick, durable rind that feels substantial to the touch. The flesh is generously thick and golden, offering a sweet, mellow flavor and a velvety, spoonable texture that holds its character beautifully. Grow Howden for standout autumn color and dependable performance in the garden, then enjoy it as a centerpiece pumpkin for hearty seasonal preparations and smooth, flavorful purées, pies, and preserves.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 65°F and nights stay above 55°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 10 days first.

Direct Sow Preferred

Sensitive roots — does not transplant well. If starting indoors, use biodegradable pots and disturb roots as little as possible when moving outdoors.

Expert Note

Direct-sow or transplant only after soil is warm; plant with ample spacing for vines and keep the crown above the soil line.