Harvest Moon

Pumpkin

95d to harvest

Harvest Moon pumpkin brings a radiant, moonlit glow to the garden—its skin ripens to a warm golden-orange with a subtly ribbed, satiny sheen. Expect thick, sturdy flesh with a fine, velvety texture that holds its richness beautifully for roasting and baking, while also shining in hearty soups, silky purées, and spiced preserves. A dependable 95-day performer, it’s a standout for growers who want both show-stopping color and versatile, pantry-ready flavor from one impressive vine.

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	May 15th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 29th
Harvest Begins	Sep 1st
Harvest Ends	Sep 24th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	95
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Vine
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	75
Min Soil Temp (°F)	65
Min Night Temp (°F)	55
Harden Off (days)	10

Recommended Companions

Country Gentleman Corn

Vesuvius Nasturtium

Fireball Marigold

Glass Gem Corn

Moonsong Deep Orange Marigold

Dwarf Cherry Rose Jewel Nasturtium

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water Cucurbita pepo during the main growth phase (after vines establish)?

During active vine growth and fruit set, keep soil consistently evenly moist but not soggy—about 1 to 2 inches of water per week depending on heat and rainfall. Water deeply at the base 1–2 times weekly so moisture reaches several inches down, and avoid wetting leaves to reduce mildew risk. Once fruits are established, continue steady moisture until about 10–14 days before harvest, then taper slightly to improve rind quality.

How can I tell when Cucurbita pepo (95 days) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when the rind is hard enough that you can’t easily puncture it with a fingernail and the fruit has reached full, solid color for your pumpkin type. The stem should look dry and corky (not bright green), and the pumpkin should sound hollow when tapped lightly. Aim to harvest around 95 days from sowing (or when it matches the “days to maturity” window), before frost and while the skin is fully developed.