Question
Dear Sir,

We just finished carving our pumpkin. We would like to save the seeds for planting next year. How should they be kept?

Thanks!

Answer
Dave, you can remove the seeds, wash them, and then place them on a paper towel for 3-5 days until they are completely dry.  You should then place them in a ziplock bag, which will then be placed in a small sealed tupperware container in the back of your refrigerator until next spring. Seeds need cool and dry conditions to simulate the dormant period necessary for germination next year.

Be aware, however, that seeds taken from hybrid plants often do not reproduce identical to the parent plant.  Most vegetables grown now are hybrids that are bred for disease resistance and specific growth habits. Only heirloom plants reproduce exactly.  This is especially noticeable when trying to sow seeds from annuals or perennial flowers since you definitely want the color and growth habit you expected.  But it is not as important with vegetables, especially gourds since they are often grown strictly for decoration and carving.

Despite these factors, I would still encourage you to save and propagate these seeds next year.  Every fall I place my spent pumpkins in the garden to decompose over the winter.  The next spring, I always get several volunteer plants that produce beautiful pumpkins.  The size and shape may vary, but they are still excellent for carving or cooking.

I hope this answered your question.  Please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike