Dickinson
Pie Pumpkin (Squash) in the US

You've got a couple of choices for sowing pie pumpkins, depending on your zone and when your last frost usually hits. If you're in a cooler spot, say zone 5, aim for May. Zones 6 and 7 can start in April or May, and you lucky folks in zones 8 and 9 can get going in March or April. I'd sow them indoors two to four weeks before your last frost date, in small pots about an inch (2.5 cm) deep. Or, if your soil's warmed up nicely, you can sow them directly outside, maybe two seeds together, and thin to the strongest seedling later.

Once your indoor seedlings have a couple of true leaves, they'll be ready to be moved into slightly bigger pots. Don't rush them outside, mind. They're a bit tender, so gradually get them used to the outdoor conditions over a week or two – that's called hardening off. Plant them out after all danger of frost has passed, giving them at least 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) between plants. They'll appreciate a good sunny spot with rich soil, like I say.