Pumpkin illustration 🎃

🎃 Growing Pumpkin in Zone 11b

Zone 11b has a year-round growing season. Pumpkin can be planted almost any time with proper planning. Last frost: Jan 15. First frost: Dec 31.

Planting Calendar

Indoor
Outdoor
Harvest
Dec 18Dec 31

Season: Jan 15 – Dec 31 (350 days)

Zone11b
Last FrostJan 15
First FrostDec 31
Season Length350 days
Days to Harvest100
SunFull Sun
Frost ToleranceNone
Spacing1/sqft (12" apart)

When to Plant Pumpkin in Zone 11b

Start Seeds Indoors: Dec 18

Start Pumpkin seeds indoors around Dec 18 (4 weeks before last frost). Optimal germination temperature: 85°F. Germinates in 5–10 days.

Transplant Outdoors: Jan 29

Transplant Pumpkin seedlings outdoors after Jan 29. Wait until soil temperature reaches 65°F. Space plants at 1/sqft (12" apart). Harden off plants for a week before moving outside.

Harvest: May 4

First harvest approximately May 4 (~95 days from transplant). Continue harvesting until first frost (Dec 31).

Companion Planting

✅ Marigolds✅ Corn✅ Nasturtiums✅ Oregano
❌ Potatoes

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Pumpkin in Zone 11b?

Start Pumpkin seeds indoors around Dec 18. Transplant outdoors after Jan 29. Expect first harvest around May 4.

What is the last frost date for Zone 11b?

The average last spring frost date for Zone 11b is Jan 15. The first fall frost averages Dec 31, giving a 350-day growing season.

Can I grow Pumpkin in Zone 11b?

Yes. Pumpkin needs 100 days to harvest. Zone 11b has a 350-day growing season, which is sufficient.

What is the best month to plant Pumpkin in Zone 11b?

The best time to start Pumpkin in Zone 11b is Dec. Begin seeds indoors around Dec 18, then transplant outdoors after the last frost date of Jan 15.

What companion plants grow well with Pumpkin?

Good companion plants for Pumpkin include Marigolds, Corn, Nasturtiums, Oregano. Avoid planting Pumpkin near Potatoes.

How long does Pumpkin take to harvest?

Pumpkin takes approximately 100 days from planting to harvest. In Zone 11b, expect your first harvest around May 4.

Plan Your Pumpkin Garden

Track Pumpkin from seed to harvest with personalized frost dates, watering recommendations, and companion planting visualization.

Start Free Pumpkin Growing Guide