Pumkin Seeds

[faw42077]

I know this may sound like a stupid question, but I know nothing about gardening, so please bear with me.

We just carved pumpkins and the kids want to save the seeds to plant next year to grow pumpkins.

How is the best way to do this, I mean can clean the seeds and then store them until next year?

TIA

Farrah

[Contrary Housewife]

Yes, save the seeds, remove as much of the pulp as possible and spread them out on a cookie sheet to dry. You may want to put them on a paper towel or piece of plastic so they don't stick. DO NOT bake them. Just let them dry at room temp. It may take a few days to get them completely dry.

When they are dry you can store them in a baggie until spring. If the seeds are not completely dry they might get moldy in the bag. Keep the seeds in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. In the spring you can plant them after the danger of frost has passed.

You won't need a lot of seeds, I typically plant 3 per mound , as 1 or 2 tend to die before maturing. Save the biggest, fattest looking seeds. They have the best chance of germination.

[faw42077]

Thanks for your help.