When to Plant Pumpkins in Arkansas
From jack-o-lanterns to pies, pumpkins need space and time but deliver a uniquely satisfying harvest.
The Short Answer
Arkansas Frost Dates
Your planting dates depend on which part of Arkansas you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Arkansas | 6b, 7a | Apr 5 - Apr 20 | Oct 10 - Oct 25 |
| Central Arkansas | 7a, 7b | Mar 25 - Apr 10 | Oct 20 - Nov 5 |
| Southern Arkansas | 7b, 8a | Mar 15 - Apr 1 | Nov 1 - Nov 15 |
Pumpkins Planting Schedule for Arkansas
Northern Arkansas (Zones 6b, 7a)
Average last frost: Apr 5 - Apr 20 · Average first frost: Oct 10 - Oct 25
Central Arkansas (Zones 7a, 7b)
Average last frost: Mar 25 - Apr 10 · Average first frost: Oct 20 - Nov 5
Southern Arkansas (Zones 7b, 8a)
Average last frost: Mar 15 - Apr 1 · Average first frost: Nov 1 - Nov 15
Growing Pumpkins in Arkansas
Pumpkins in Arkansas's Climate
Your long season means you can plant pumpkins later than northern growers while still getting October harvest. The trick is timing: plant in June-July so pollination occurs in September when temperatures have moderated from peak summer heat. Squash vine borer often has two generations in warm climates — the later planting helps avoid the worst damage.
Soil Considerations for Arkansas
Heavy clay in lowlands. Rocky soil in Ozarks. Raised beds recommended for drainage. Make sure soil has warmed to at least 65°F before planting pumpkins outside.
Arkansas Climate & Growing Season
Hot, humid summers. Moderate winters. Good growing conditions for most vegetables. Pumpkins cannot tolerate any frost, so wait until all frost danger has passed before transplanting outside. Watch local forecasts carefully in spring.
Growing season length varies across Arkansas: Northern Arkansas (6b, 7a) has a last frost around Apr 5 - Apr 20, while Southern Arkansas (7b, 8a) sees frost end around Mar 15 - Apr 1. This difference matters for pumpkins — transplant timing shifts by several weeks across the state.
Growing Tips
Count backwards from when you want ripe pumpkins (usually October). They need 90-120 days, so mid-June to early July is often ideal.
Companion Planting
Plant pumpkins alongside these companions for better growth:
Keep pumpkins away from:
The Bottom Line
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026