When to Plant Pumpkins in Michigan
From jack-o-lanterns to pies, pumpkins need space and time but deliver a uniquely satisfying harvest.
The Short Answer
Michigan Frost Dates
Your planting dates depend on which part of Michigan you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Peninsula | 4a, 4b, 5a | May 15 - Jun 5 | Sep 10 - Sep 25 |
| Northern Lower Michigan | 5a, 5b | May 10 - May 25 | Sep 20 - Oct 5 |
| Southern Michigan | 5b, 6a, 6b | Apr 25 - May 10 | Oct 1 - Oct 15 |
Pumpkins Planting Schedule for Michigan
Upper Peninsula (Zones 4a, 4b, 5a)
Average last frost: May 15 - Jun 5 · Average first frost: Sep 10 - Sep 25
Northern Lower Michigan (Zones 5a, 5b)
Average last frost: May 10 - May 25 · Average first frost: Sep 20 - Oct 5
Southern Michigan (Zones 5b, 6a, 6b)
Average last frost: Apr 25 - May 10 · Average first frost: Oct 1 - Oct 15
Growing Pumpkins in Michigan
State-Specific Growing Tips
Direct sow from late May to mid-June in southern Michigan. For northern Michigan and the UP, plant by early June to ensure maturity before frost (which can arrive as early as mid-September). Michigan's sandy western soils warm quickly and drain well — ideal for pumpkins. Southeast Michigan's clay needs raised hills with compost. Space vining varieties 5-6 feet apart. MSU Extension's pumpkin production guide is one of the most detailed in the country, reflecting Michigan's commercial pumpkin industry expertise.
Recommended Varieties for Michigan
Howden is the Michigan standard for carving. Magic Lantern and Racer are shorter-season alternatives for northern Michigan. Sugar Pie and Long Pie for baking. Cinderella (Rouge vif d'Étampes) is popular at farmers markets. For the UP's short season, choose varieties under 90 days — Jack Be Little and Small Sugar mature quickly enough.
Common Challenges in Michigan
Squash vine borer emerges in late June — monitor stem bases. Powdery mildew in late summer. Downy mildew arrives from the south in some years. Deer browsing of young plants in rural areas. Cool, wet springs can delay soil warming and push planting dates later.
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