Classic Howden Pumpkin Seeds

Howden Pumpkin Seeds

Grow Classic, Giant Jack-O’-Lantern Pumpkins

Bring autumn tradition to your garden with Howden Pumpkin Seeds. Famous for their large size, bright orange color, and sturdy handles, Howden pumpkins are one of the most popular heirloom-style carving pumpkins grown by home gardeners and market growers alike. These dependable pumpkins produce uniform fruit perfect for fall decorating, carving, baking, and roadside displays.

History of Howden Pumpkins

Developed by John Howden in the 1960s, the Howden pumpkin quickly became a favorite for Halloween carving thanks to its strong stems, uniform shape, and deep orange color. It was bred to improve the classic Connecticut Field pumpkin by offering thicker flesh, better handles, and more consistent fruit size. Today, Howden pumpkins remain a trusted garden favorite for fall harvests and festive displays.

Plant Profile

• Days to Maturity: 110–115 days
• Fruit Size: Typically 20–30 pounds
• Plant Size: Long vigorous vines spreading 10–15 feet
• Shape: Round to slightly oblong
• Color: Deep bright orange with strong ribbing

Flavor Profile

Howden pumpkins have mild, slightly sweet flesh with a classic pumpkin flavor. While best known for carving and decoration, the thick flesh can also be used in pies, soups, roasted pumpkin dishes, and homemade puree.

Growth Type & Harvest Yields

• Vigorous vining pumpkin variety
• Produces 2–4 large pumpkins per plant under ideal conditions
• Excellent uniformity for home gardens, fall markets, and pumpkin patches
• Strong stems help support heavy fruit and improve display quality

Disease Resistance

Howden pumpkins show good field performance and strong vigor. Proper spacing and crop rotation help reduce common pumpkin diseases such as:

• Powdery mildew
• Downy mildew
• Bacterial wilt
• Squash vine borers

Growing Tips & Planting Dimensions

Pumpkins thrive in full sun with rich, fertile, well-drained soil.

Direct Sowing

• Sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost has passed
• Plant seeds 1 inch deep
• Space hills 4–6 feet apart
• Leave 8–12 feet between rows

Soil & Water

• Keep soil consistently moist during fruit development
• Add compost or aged manure before planting
• Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and reduce weeds

Fertilizing

• Use balanced fertilizer early in growth
• Switch to phosphorus and potassium-rich feeding during fruit set for larger pumpkins

When to Start Indoors

In cooler climates, start Howden Pumpkin Seeds indoors 2–3 weeks before your final frost date. Transplant carefully once soil temperatures warm and frost danger has passed.

For planting dates and growing zone guidance, visit: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

Good Companion Plants & Mutual Benefits

Corn - Provides partial shade for roots and helps retain soil moisture.

Nasturtiums - Help attract pollinators while discouraging squash pests.

Marigolds - May deter harmful nematodes and unwanted insects.

Beans - Help improve soil nitrogen levels, supporting vigorous vine growth.

Radishes - Can help deter squash borers and cucumber beetles.

How to Enjoy Howden Pumpkins

• Create classic jack-o’-lanterns
• Decorate porches and fall displays
• Roast pumpkin seeds for snacks
• Make homemade pumpkin puree
• Use in soups, breads, pies, and baked dishes

Why Gardeners Love Howden Pumpkins

• Large traditional Halloween pumpkins
• Bright orange color with sturdy handles
• Excellent carving quality
• Reliable yields and vigorous vines
• Great for gardens, markets, and family fun

Harvest Tips

Harvest pumpkins when:

• Rinds turn deep orange
• Skins become hard and resist fingernail pressure
• Vines begin drying back

Cut pumpkins from the vine with several inches of stem attached to improve storage life. Cure pumpkins in a warm, dry location for 7–10 days before storing.

Order Today

Grow your own classic fall harvest with premium Howden Pumpkin Seeds from Garden Heirloom Seeds. Perfect for carving, decorating, baking, and creating unforgettable autumn memories.