Oak Hill, WV (WOAY) Depending on where you are, most pumpkins are harvested in September or October, and according to Savvy Gardening, there are four signs that you can look for to determine if a pumpkin is ripe and ready to harvest.
- The first place to look is the specific number of ‘days to maturity’ listed on the seed packet or seed catalog. Most pumpkins need somewhere between 90 and 120 days to fully mature.
- The second obvious sign is color. When the fruits have turned into their mature orange, white, red, blue, or yellow, it’s time to take a closer look at the rind.
- Third, test the hardness of the rind with a fingernail where a mark won’t be visible. If the rind is very firm and hard to pierce, it’s likely ripe, but if your fingernail sinks into the rind easily, the pumpkin may need more time.
- Finally, check the sound and the stem. A ripe pumpkin should sound hollow when you thump it with your hand, and the stem should harden and turn from green to brown as the fruit matures.
Whether your home-grown pumpkins are used for baking, jack-o’-lanterns, or autumn decor, harvesting at the right time can help your fall staples last as long as possible.
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