The seeds are planted in the field from the last week of May to the middle of June. After the seeds are planted, they begin to germinate in about 7-10 days, depending on the variety. During this time, seeds need moisture and warmth. Once seeds have germinated, they will send up their first leaves, called seed leaves. The true leaves generally appear next.
Yellow flowers blossom after the first three weeks of growth.
Male flowers are seen first. About a week later, the female blossoms. Blossoms live for only a half-day, and will not open in cold, rainy weather. When both male and female blossoms appear on the vine, bees transfer the pollen between the two. Once pollinated, the fruit at the base of the female blossom develops into a full-sized pumpkin.