Baby Bear
95d to harvest
Sink your fingers into Baby Bear’s delightfully compact fruits, where a velvety, deep-ribbed skin glows in warm orange-copper tones and feels satisfyingly substantial in the hand. The flesh is richly flavored and tender, with a fine-grained bite that shines when roasted for caramelized sweetness, or when used for hearty sauces and festive preserves. Ideal for gardeners who love showy, space-smart harvests, Baby Bear matures to miniature pumpkins that hold their charm well from vine to display.
Crop Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | Direct Sow |
| Last Frost | May 15th |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | May 29th |
| Harvest Begins | Sep 1st |
| Harvest Ends | Sep 1st |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 95 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Vine |
| Support Needed | Trellis |
| Planting Depth | Normal |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 80 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 65 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 55 |
| Harden Off (days) | 10 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I treat powdery mildew on Baby Bear plants?
Look for a white, floury coating on leaves and stems, usually starting after warm days and humid nights (mid to late season). Remove the most infected leaves, improve airflow with proper spacing, and water at the soil line (not on foliage). Spray a fungicide labeled for powdery mildew on vegetables and repeat according to label timing, especially after the first visible symptoms.
How often should I water Baby Bear during the main growing phase?
During the active growth period (after seedlings establish and while producing/pushing new growth), keep soil evenly moist but not soggy—about 1 inch of water per week, split into 2–3 waterings during hot weather. Check by feel: the top 1–2 inches should be moist, but the soil should not stay wet or waterlogged. If leaves wilt in the heat of day, water deeply in the morning and avoid daily shallow watering.
When is Baby Bear ready to harvest?
Harvest when fruits are fully developed at about 95 days from sowing and have reached the expected size and color for “Baby Bear,” with firm skin and a crisp snap. For the best flavor, pick in the morning, before the heat softens the fruit. If you’re unsure, do a test harvest—if the flesh is tender and the seeds are fully formed for the stage, it’s ready.