From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Lawrenceville Illinois

I was wondering at this date in southern Illinois if I could remove two of my giant pumpkins. They are for sure done growing, but it doesnt look like their color is at 100%. If I remove them I need to know where I can store them safely.

9/1/2010 7:32:10 PM

Upa Creek, Mo

I have asked this question before and what I got was leave it on the vine as long as possible. Once you cut it, it will start to deteriorate at some rate. Some break down slow while others go quick depending on genetics. If you do cut it, keep it on a wood pallet or wood floor (not concrete) and in a cool, dark room. I cut one of mine a couple weeks ago and it is fine. AG's typicaly don't hold up like Jackos which can keep well over one year.

As for color, just because they don't look bright orange doesn't mean they aren't done turning. That is genetics again which is why you see matured ones in all shades.

Good luck.

9/1/2010 9:09:00 PM

Cincinnati,OH

I leave them on until all the leaves are dead.

9/2/2010 6:35:32 PM

Lawrenceville Illinois

Thank you for the info. I wasn't sure how fast the pumpkins would lose weight if I picked them. Ill just leave them on the vine. No harm no foul right? lol

9/4/2010 8:49:21 AM

Rhode Island

just because a pumpkin has stopped growing does not mean you must pick and store it.
if the plant has obvious diseases then yes you probably should pick and store in a cool place however, if the plant is healthy theres no reason to pick it.
just cut away most of the plant and leave the pumpkin on life support until you need it.
if healthy they will last for several weeks in this condition.
we have on a couple occasions left pumpkins hooked to only a small piece of main during mid summer and they have held up (covered with a sheet)for a couple months.this may be the exception rather than the rule though. but it can happen.

9/5/2010 5:44:33 AM