Do you know how to save pumpkin seeds? If not, come on this little journey with me, my friend, because you know those gorgeous pumpkins that you see at the pumpkin patch? Well, you just might be able to grow them on your own right there in your very own garden!

A couple of years ago, I picked out the coolest pumpkins I could find during our trip to the pumpkin patch (black, white, gray, pink, knobby, etc) and saved the seeds. Earlier this year, we built a little pumpkin patch (see our journey to having a farm with no experience HERE). But I skipped step one below, so I got SOME pretty interesting weird squash/goard/pumpkin mixes, but some of the seeds did actually grow the perfect adorable pumpkins I was hoping to replicate, like these cutie little black and white pumpkins.

So, are you ready to make the most from your own pumpkin patch picks?

Here’s how to save pumpkin seeds for growing your own!

First things first, I would find out if the pumpkin you have your eye on is heirloom or a hybrid. Hybrid varieties can cross-pollinate with other squash varieties and could leave you with an interesting combination plant – like a pumpkini or a sqoard. I made those up, but you get the idea. Just ask an employee and if they know, I’m sure they’ll tell ya! Or just go for it and buy them anyway – think of it as a fun science experiment!

Here are some interesting hybrids I accidentally grew!

Have fun selecting your pumpkins to try to grow! With so many exciting options out there, it’s all about finding the pumpkins that speak to your heart and your garden. From classic jack-o’-lantern pumpkins to sweet pie pumpkins, there’s a perfect pumpkin for everyone. So consider the size, color, and flavor you desire, and let your imagination run wild.

When making your selection, keep in mind how you plan to use your pumpkins. Whether you’re planning a spooky Halloween display, a delightful pumpkin pie feast, or simply want to spruce up your garden, the choice is yours. So, go on a pumpkin adventure, pick your pumpkins, and get ready for a season of vibrant, pumpkin-inspired magic in your garden.

So how do we get those pumpkin seeds out! Grab your favorite knife, a big spoon, and, of course, your beautiful pumpkin. Start by cutting a lid off the top of the pumpkin, just like you’re making a jack-o’-lantern.

Now, the fun part begins – scoop out the seeds and the stringy flesh using that trusty spoon. It’s a bit messy, but trust me, it’s all part of the adventure!

Once you’ve got all those seeds in a big, gooey, orange pile, give them a good rinse to get rid of any clinging pumpkin bits. I use a colander (and 3 small children) to help with this.

It’s like a spa day for your pumpkin seeds! After their refreshing bath, lay them out on a paper towel, parchment paper, or tray to dry for a few days.

Now you’ve got your seeds all clean and ready to be transformed into future pumpkin treasures. Let’s store them away until spring!

Once your pumpkin seeds are all cleaned and dried, it’s time to find them a cozy home until planting time.

And guess what? These seeds can stay good for months (or even years!), ready to burst into life whenever you’re ready to plant them. So, give your pumpkin seeds a safe and snug space, and you’ll be all set for the pumpkin-planting ahead!

Planting pumpkin seeds is one of the most exciting parts of this adventure.

Find a sunny spot, dig a little hole, and tuck those seeds in, about a half inch to an inch deep (deeper for larger seeds). Be sure to give them plenty of room – pumpkin plants are extremely large! They grow fast, also, and it’s so fun to watch them thrive!

Now that your pumpkin plants have sprouted and are reaching for the sky, it’s time to give them all the TLC they need!

Caring for pumpkin plants isn’t especially difficult. Keep them watered and tend to any unwanted pests (squash bugs can be a problem). Also, I found out the hard way that deer really enjoy pumpkins, too!

With your nurturing touch, those vines will grow, those leaves will flourish, and before you know it, you’ll have a pumpkin patch bursting with potential.

It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for – pumpkin harvest time!

When your pumpkins are the perfect shade and have that lovely, glossy sheen, it’s time to put on your pumpkin-picking hat and get to work. Just use a sharp pair of garden shears or a knife to carefully cut the stem, leaving a little bit attached to the pumpkin.

Make sure to harvest before the first frost creeps in and surprises you. So, gather your friends and family, bring out the wheelbarrow, and enjoy a day of pumpkin picking.

It’s a joyous celebration of your gardening efforts, and those pumpkins will soon be transformed into delicious pies, spooky jack-o’-lanterns, and heartwarming autumn decor.

Happy harvesting! 🎃

Thanks so much for coming along with me today! You can watch the VIDEO I made about saving pumpkin seeds to grow your own by clicking HERE. (And hey, why not join my crew on Instagram while you’re at it, my friend?) I can’t wait to see what you grow!

Biggest Hugs + Blessings,

ann marie 🖤

---