Since they are seeds you wanted and were dearly looking for I would sow them towards the end of the winter sowing season.

Pumkin seeds are pretty tough cookies. I throw dozens of pumpkins in my compost in the fall and every spring have dozens of pumpkin seedlings growing out of every crevice.

I start mine very late winter or very early spring. Be sure you have their home ready. Once they germinate they grow very quickly. I may be a bit warmer than you, but I have to get mine transplanted three to four days after germination. They get their second set of leaves that quickly. They don't do well sitting in a temporary home.

Thank you,so,you think around Feb.?
Carol

Pumpkin plants are not frost tolerant, so I'd be careful where you place that container. If you have it in a sunny spot, or get a warm spell in the early spring, and it germinates before your last frost date, then you are going to have to try to protect the plant everytime the temps dip below freezing.

I direct sowed mine in mid to late May.

Bonnie

I was thinking the same thing Bonnie. I've lost cukes and squash due to frost from direct sowing too early. That's what I get for listening to the weathermen rather than paying attention to the dogwoods.

same as cukes and zuccini- same family. I soak them overnight and start last week of April or so. Once they germinate they grow real fast, they also will not tolerate any frost or even extra chilly night might do them in.
I see no reason to WS them.

I agree with Bonnie too. Volunteers are different in that they have no protection and come up only when weather is warm enough. In our containers the temps can rise just enough to initiate germination especially if placed in all day sun (like mine are always placed), however if there is just enough temp drop those seedlings will kill over no matter how much protection. I start mine around and usually have sprouts within 2-5 days.

Vera

Oh wow,thanks you guys,i will direct sow them the last of April,maybe the second week in May just to be safe.And keep a really close eye on them.
Carol

I would sow them here in zone 7 indoors in mid April for planting in early May. So the second week should be good. When the dogwood's leaves are the size of squirrel ears, go for it.