Crops › Pie Pumpkin (Squash) › Peanut Pumpkin
Peanut Pumpkin
Pie Pumpkin (Squash) in the US
This pumpkin is known for its unique, peanut-like bumps on the skin, giving it a really distinctive look in the garden. Despite the unusual appearance, it offers sweet, flavorful flesh that's excellent for all your baking.
Sow window for Pie Pumpkin (Squash) generally, zone 6.
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How to grow it
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.
Full Pie Pumpkin (Squash) guide →
More Pie Pumpkin (Squash) varieties
Track your Pie Pumpkin (Squash) from packet to plate
Sowing reminders and harvest forecasts for your own frost dates, the Seed Tin, Scan Centre for any label or packet, and the Potty Mouth Garden Club. Free to start.
