Check the days to maturity on the seed packets. I know that the jack-o-lantern pumpkin is generally planted around the second week of June in order to harvest for Halloween. If Big Max takes more days than Jack-O-Lantern, then calculate from that and make your adjustments. Many folks get impatient and plant as soon as possible in the spring and the pumpkins are getting old by October. They produce quickly!

George
Tahlequah, OK

I have all of my seeds in the ground by the first or second of June. The nights are cool here so our pumpkins need more time than in a warmer climate. I start the 100+ day pumpkins in the greenhouse three weeks before I transplant them.

hydrojeff,
since your in zone 9, and I assume the temperatures there are already pretty high, you should be able to plant the seeds now. Pumpkins are heat-lovers, so they need to be planted when it's nice and warm outside. Also, I've heard that the pumpkin needs a few days to "cure" after they're ripe. My understanding is that the pumpkin should be removed from the vine and placed in a cool place outdoors in order for the shell to harden up. Hopefully I helped you out a little! :)

Abby

You plant when the soil heats up to about 50 F. This means the soil, not the air. You can start pumpkins indoors and then put them in the ground when a few inches high. I generally put them in about the middle of May (into the garden bed). They like full sun of course and to be kept moist, but not wet. Try to avoid wetting the leaves when they are being watered, to avoid mould and fungus problems.