Episode Transcript

John Morgan here and welcome to this week’s episode of The Keep Growing Podcast where we take a look at the gardening week ahead for the Mid-Ohio Valley.  This week we’re covering week 38 of 2024.  Saturday, September 14th to Saturday, September 21st.  Up first, let’s take a look at the weather.

I’ve got some not great news.  The dry weather is continuing.  We’re looking at dry weather and temperatures in the 80s this week.

Tuesday, September 17th is the Full Moon.  Traditionally, that is the time to plant root crops.

According to the garden calendar this week, it is time to:

• Seed Fall Spinach and Seed Lettuce in a High Tunnel

• Plant Shallots and Potato Onions

• Transplant Winter Sprouting Broccoli

• Repot Houseplants

• Harvest Pumpkins and Early-Planted Sweet Potatoes

This week let’s dig a bit deeper into harvesting pumpkins. Timing is everything. You want to pick your pumpkins before the first hard frost, but also when they've had enough time to mature. Generally, this is around late September to early October in most regions. But how do you know if your pumpkin is ready?

• Look at the Color: Pumpkins should have their full, vibrant color, whether that's orange, white, or any other variety you're growing.

• Check the Skin: The skin should be hard and not easily punctured with a fingernail. If it dents, it's not ready.

• Stem Health: The stem should be green and firmly attached. If it's starting to dry out or turn brown, it might be time.

Now, onto the harvesting process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare Your Tools: You'll need a sharp knife or pruning shears. Some also use a small saw for larger pumpkins.

2. Cut the Stem: Leave about 3-4 inches of stem on the pumpkin. This helps prevent rot and keeps it looking fresh longer. Cut at a slight angle to help water run off.

3. Handle with Care: Pumpkins can be surprisingly delicate. Lift them from the botoom rather than the stem to avoid it possibly breaking off.

4. Clean Up: Remove any dirt or debris. If you're not using them immediately, store them in a cool, dry place with good ventilation.

After harvesting, what's next? Curing your pumpkins can extend their life:

• Curing Process: Place them in a warm, dry spot for about 10 days. This hardens the skin further, sealing in moisture.

• Storage: Once cured, store them in a single layer, not touching each other, in a place where temperatures are between 50-55°F.

But what if you're growing pumpkins for more than just decoration? Here are some culinary tips:

• Pumpkin Puree: For pies or soups, cut your pumpkin in half, scoop out the seeds, and bake it face down until soft. Then blend or mash.

• Seeds: Don't forget the seeds! Clean them, toss with oil and salt, and roast for a tasty snack.

And let's not forget, pumpkin farming isn't just about the harvest. It's about community, tradition, and sometimes, just the sheer fun of it. Many farms host festivals where harvesting pumpkins becomes a family event, complete with hayrides, mazes, and pie-eating contests.

Personally, one of my nephews has a birthday in October.  We usually take a trip to a farm just outside of Columbus, OH that has a ton of fall activities.  It makes for a great weekend activity that has created a ton of fond memories … and some funny photos.

At Bob’s Market we sell a wide variety of pumpkins from little pie pumpkins to big chonkers for carving.  Stop by your local Bob’s and pick out the perfect pumpkin.  Later this fall we’re going to have a pumpkin-centric contest.  Keep an eye out for more details on our website in the future, and, of course, keep growing.

For full show notes and a transcript visit bobsmarket.com/keepgrowing  Send your questions, comments, and smart remarks to keepgrowing at obsmarket.com.