First, the clichés:
Never give up hope. It’s not over till it’s over. Don’t give up! Don’t be discouraged! Okay…but…
Wilted Pumpkin Seedling
I am discouraged. We transplanted our pumpkin seedlings Sunday evening into freshly prepared planter boxes. The process was challenging on two fronts. First, the seed pods were so close together, that the leaves and stems entangled. As I gently pulled them apart, several of the stems bent or snapped. It was disheartening. Second, the seed pods had to be pushed out from the bottom, instead of scooping out from the top, further damaging the tender plants. I improved my technique as I went along, so the lower box looks a bit better.
On the bright side, I have a reserve of seeds in all six varieties, so I’ll plant those directly into the bed. Stay tuned.
Has this ever happened to you?
Lower Box
Volunteer Pumpkin
This seed survived the winter and is doing just fine without my help
Related articles
- True Leaves: Seedlings Ready to Go (gardeningnirvana.wordpress.com)
- Planting at Dusk: Tucking the Seedlings in for the Night (gardeningnirvana.wordpress.com)
- Seedlings Day 1 (thehomesteadatspringcreek.wordpress.com)
Gardening Nirvana 
How much direct light did your seedlings have before transplanting? Did they have to reach for the light? The stems of the young plants look very long or “leggy.” This can make them weak. I think you will find that your direct seeded plants will come up much sturdier (just like your volunteer). I am no expert, but I think squashes in general do better when they are directly seeded into the ground. Looks like you have plenty, so some should make it! Good luck!
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Thanks so much for your input and support. They are leggy, something that seems so obvious now that you are pointing it out. They were under kitchen lights and near a window with indirect but bright sunlight. I’ll be posting on the success of the in-ground seeds.
Thanks for reading and commenting!
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Did you harden off the plants gradually to their new environment? Melons, pumpkins, cucumbers and related don’t like to be transplanted.
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For starters, I *love* your avatar: Jimmy Cracked-Corn. That is wonderful.
I transplanted after our temps were warm, into a sheltered bed. The only thing I didn’t do was cover them. Based on your comments, and those from others, I’m going to directly seed into the soil next year, erecting the squirrel barrier until they make it to the true leaf stage.
Thanks for sharing, and for stopping by.
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I sympathize with your discouragement, after all your best efforts. I’m heartened, though, by the wisdom shared by the previous commenters, who sound like they have meaningful experience from which to draw. It seems you’ve received some valuable advice, and are now on the right track. I’m so glad that it looks like your pumpkin patch is salvageable with your direct-to-ground planting, and I maintain high hopes for forthcoming reports of success. Live and learn!
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To garden is to fail; then try again! Great advice and support. Stay tuned! Thanks for commenting.
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I have leggy pumpkin seedlings each in separate pots. The true leaves have not arrived yet. I am wondering if they will be ok and where the true leaves will grow.
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Over the years I’ve found direct sowing produces stronger seedlings. You may try planting more seeds outdoors under shelter or if possible, directly into the ground.
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