Pumpkins are subject to chilling injury at low temperatures and some cultivars cannot be expected to hold in good condition more than 2-3 months at 50-55 degrees.

However, Lil' Ironsides, by Harris Moran Seed Company, can hold well 4-5 months after harvest, this due to its thick-walled shell.

Use the following guidelines:

• Optimum temperature of storing pumpkins in the Mid-Atlantic region is 50-55 degrees.
• Optimum relative humidity is 50 to 70 degrees.
• Place the pumpkins on racks, in bins, or in baskets and hold in ventilated or common storage.

Since many growers lack adequate labor and space to move pumpkins into curing and storage, the storage of pumpkins may not be feasible. There are some things, however, that can be done to maximize shelf-life and limit post-harvest losses. 

Since many growers lack adequate labor and space to move pumpkins into curing and storage, the storage of pumpkins may not be feasible. There are some things, however, that can be done to maximize shelf-life and limit post-harvest losses. 

Start with good quality pumpkins, such as those from Harris Moran like Magic Lantern, Lil' Goblin, Merlin. The variety is key because once harvested pumpkins don't improve in quality. Also, use cultural practices that contribute to quality fruit. For example, many research pumpkins are grown on hairy vetch mulch that is fall-seeded and killed with contact herbicides prior to planting. The thick mat of organic mulch keeps the fruit clean by limiting soil splashing in rains. It also allows growers or their customers to get into the field in wet weather for harvesting.

Since handle strength and integrity are important, select varieties that offer long, thick handles. Harris Moran varieties like Mystic and OZ fit this bill. Research has shown that a rigorous fungicide application program in the field during the growing season will contribute to stronger handles and longer storage after harvest. In general, smaller-fruited types have better handles than large, face-type varieties.

Many growers are now using long-handled loppers to cut stems from the vines at harvest. This takes little time and allows workers to pick up several fruit at a time after they are cut. The use of leather gloves also facilitates harvest, since some varieties tend to have strong, sharp spines on the stems. When handling or moving pumpkins, use as much care as possible to avoid physical damage. Throwing and dropping fruit can break off handles and cause puncture injury to fruit walls and other handles.