1# CONNECTICUT FIELD PUMPKIN S

Connecticut Field Pumpkin Seed (Cucurbita pepo) is a classic heirloom pumpkin variety and the traditional choice for jack‑o’‑lanterns, pies, and fall displays.

🎃 Variety Overview

• Type: Field pumpkin (open‑pollinated heirloom)

• Fruit Size: 15–25 lb (sometimes larger)

• Shape: Round to slightly flattened with shallow ribs

• Color: Bright to deep orange

• Days to Maturity: ~100–110 days

• Vine Length: 10–15+ feet

• Use: Carving, pie filling, roasting, livestock feed, décor

✅ Why Grow Connecticut Field

• True traditional pumpkin variety

• Excellent for carving and cooking

• Reliable yields and vigorous vines

• Good balance of size, flavor, and storage

• Seeds can be saved year to year

This is the pumpkin historically used for New England pumpkin pie.

🌤️ Growing Conditions

• Season: Warm‑season crop

• Sun: Full sun (8+ hours)

• Soil: Rich, well‑drained soil with plenty of organic matter

• Soil pH: 6.0–6.8

• Temperature: Plant after frost; thrives in warm weather

🌱 Planting Instructions

• When to Plant:

  • After last frost when soil is at least 65°F

• How to Plant:

  • Depth: 1 inch

  • Spacing: 4–6 feet between plants

  • Rows: 8–10 feet apart

🌱 Tip: Plant in raised hills amended with compost for best drainage and growth.

💧 Care & Feeding

• Water deeply and consistently, especially during flowering and fruit fill

• Mulch to retain moisture and prevent weeds

• Feed with balanced fertilizer early; reduce nitrogen once fruit sets

• Place pumpkins on straw or cardboard to prevent rot

🎃 Harvesting

• Harvest before hard frost when rind is fully orange and hard

• Cut fruit with 3–4 inches of stem attached

• Cure in a warm, dry spot for 10–14 days to improve storage life

🥧 Cooking Quality

• Dense, moderately sweet flesh

• Excellent for:

  • Homemade pumpkin purée

  • Pies and breads

  • Roasting or soups

(Smaller fruits usually have the best flavor.)

🌿 Companion Plants

• Corn

• Beans

• Nasturtiums

(Avoid planting near potatoes.)