When to Plant Pumpkins in Maine
In a typical Maine location, sow outdoors May 9 – May 23. Across the state, the outdoor planting window starts as early as May 2 in Lewiston and as late as May 23 in Sanford.
Direct sow 1-3 weeks after last frost; back-time from your first fall frost so the 90-120 day maturity window lands before it.
Pumpkins Planting Dates by City
| City | Direct sow |
|---|---|
| Portland | May 3 – May 17 |
| Lewiston | May 2 – May 16 |
| Bangor | May 11 – May 25 |
| West Scarborough | May 3 – May 17 |
| South Portland | May 3 – May 17 |
| South Portland Gardens | May 3 – May 17 |
| Auburn | May 2 – May 16 |
| Biddeford | May 16 – May 30 |
| Sanford | May 23 – Jun 6 |
| Saco | May 16 – May 30 |
| Augusta | May 4 – May 18 |
| Westbrook | May 3 – May 17 |
| Waterville | May 9 – May 23 |
| Brunswick | May 9 – May 23 |
| York Beach | May 8 – May 22 |
| Wells Beach Station | May 16 – May 30 |
| Orono | May 8 – May 22 |
| Lisbon | May 22 – Jun 5 |
| North Bath | May 17 – May 31 |
| Brewer | May 11 – May 25 |
| Presque Isle | May 21 – Jun 4 |
Showing the 21 most populous of 21 Maine cities. Dates are estimates from each city's NOAA frost normals and university extension timing guidelines. See all Maine cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant pumpkins in Maine?
In a typical Maine location, sow outdoors May 9 – May 23. Across the state, the outdoor planting window starts as early as May 2 in Lewiston and as late as May 23 in Sanford.
When is the last frost in Maine?
The average last spring frost in Maine ranges from April 25 in Lewiston to May 16 in Sanford, based on NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals.
How long do pumpkins take to grow?
Pumpkins typically take 90–120 days from planting to harvest. Direct sow 1-3 weeks after last frost; back-time from your first fall frost so the 90-120 day maturity window lands before it.
Other Crops in Maine
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplant
- Cucumbers
- Zucchini
- Winter Squash
- Watermelon
- Cantaloupe
- Corn
- Green Beans
- Peas
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Kale
- Arugula
- Swiss Chard
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Brussels Sprouts
- Carrots
- Beets
- Radishes
- Turnips
- Onions
- Garlic
- Potatoes
- Sweet Potatoes
- Asparagus
- Basil
- Cilantro
- Parsley
- Dill
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Sunflowers
- Zinnias
- Marigolds
- Cosmos
- Nasturtiums
- Dahlias
When to plant pumpkins in other states