How Do You Save Pumpkin Seeds To Plant Next Year?
If you use pumpkins for decorating, cooking or baking, you know that quality matters. If you grow your own pumpkins, you can save the seeds from your favorite heirloom plants for a satisfying harvest next year. Oregon State University advises gardeners to only save seeds from self pollinated, heirloom pumpkins. Do not save pumpkin seeds from hybrid varieties or pumpkins that cross-pollinated with other pumpkin varieties or squash. The resulting plants will not grow true to your treasured heirloom pumpkins. Choose a ripe, disease-free pumpkin. Choose a pumpkin without cracks or abnormal growths. Use a sharp kitchen knife to cut the top off the pumpkin. Cut the pumpkin in half, or quarters, for easy handling. Use a large spoon to scrape the stringy pulp and seeds out of the pumpkin. Remove large batches of loose seeds by hand. Place the pulp and seeds in the colander. Place the colander in the sink and turn on the water. Use warm water to avoid burning your hands and damaging the seeds.
