New England Pie Pumpkin (Organic 100 Days)

 A time-tested heirloom cooking pumpkin that grows well in the North. Organically grown strain of seed closely tied to the Small Sugar or Sugar Pie Pumpkin varieties. Drier, starchy, and less stringy texture than regular pumpkins. Makes a thick puree for fresh pies, breads, canning, or freezing. 4- 7 lb fruits.  

15 seeds

PLANTING

Cucurbita pepo

Germination: 7-10 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 70-90ºF. Planting in soil under 70ºF may result in poor germination.

Seed Sowing Depth: ½ -1” deep

Starting Indoors:  3-4 weeks before the last frost. Sow 2-3 seeds per cells/pots, thin to the strongest seedling. We like to use individual biodegradable paper, peat, or cow pots because it provides the least amount of stress to the roots when transplanting. Transplant after the last frost when the soil warms to 70ºF. Space 36-48” apart, in rows 48-60” apart.   

Sowing Outdoors: After the last frost, when the soil reaches at least 70ºF. Sow 2-3 seeds per space/hill, 36-48” apart, in rows 48-60” apart. 

How much does a packet plant: 12-15 foot single row, 4-5 hills 

Harvest: When the skin turns color, and the rinds are hard. Leave a few inches of the stem on for the best storage potential.

Tips: Heavy feeder; requires high nitrogen. Plant into fertile soil or amend with compost, manure, and/or granular organic fertilizer. Heavy water needs; mulch, and supply adequate water, at least 1” per week for optimum growth.