Pumpkins & Gourds

The Season of Pumpkins, Gourds & Squash at GARDENWORKS

As September rolls in and the air turns crisp, it marks the arrival of pumpkins at GARDENWORKS. While not an official season, we like to think of autumn as the season of pumpkins, gourds, and squash—icons of fall decorating, cooking, and celebration.

The Mighty Pumpkin

Few things say “fall” like a pumpkin. Both humble and iconic, pumpkins are the true ambassadors of the season.

• A Palette of Colours: Pumpkins aren’t just orange. At GARDENWORKS you’ll find them in serene greys, blush-pinks, creamy whites, sage-greens, vibrant oranges, yellows, and even deep reds. Whatever your fall colour scheme, there’s a pumpkin to match.
• Nature’s Artistry: Pumpkins also shine in their textures. From smooth and polished to bumpy and warty, striped, ribbed, or multicoloured, no two pumpkins are alike—making them perfect for creative fall displays.

Pumpkin vs. Squash vs. Gourd

Ever wondered what makes a pumpkin different from a squash or gourd? They’re all members of the Cucurbitaceae family, but here’s the breakdown:

• Pumpkins: A type of winter squash, known for their round shape, ribbed skin, and warm autumn colours. Unlike ornamental gourds, pumpkins are edible (though some varieties are better for eating than others).
• Winter Squash: Includes pumpkins, butternut, acorn, kabocha, and others. These squashes develop hard skins and sweet, rich flesh, storing well through winter.
• Gourds: Hard-shelled and decorative, gourds are grown more for their shapes, colours, and textures than for eating. They’re the artists of the squash family, perfect for fall décor.

The Taste of Autumn

Every pumpkin you’ll find at GARDENWORKS is technically edible, but some varieties are bred for beauty, while others shine in the kitchen.

• Best for Baking: The Winter Luxury pumpkin is one of our favourites for pies, thanks to its sweet, smooth flesh. Look for a golden rind with delicate white netting.

Pumpkins for Décor

One of the wonderful things about pumpkins, gourds, and squash is their durability. Stored in a cool, dry place, they can last up to six months—making them perfect for both decorating and later cooking.

• Porch Perfection: Don’t stop at one pumpkin. Fill your porch or balcony with ten or twenty, mixing in mums, straw bales, or corn stalks for a festive fall look.
• Pumpkin Planters: Hollow out a pumpkin, fill it with soil, and plant fall flowers inside. Add cobwebs and skeletons for Halloween, or keep it rustic with harvest accents.*Not sure where to start with this project? Sign up for our Autumn Harvest Pumpkin Planter Workshop HERE
• Indoor Charm: Smaller pumpkins add instant coziness indoors. Try them on mantles, shelves, or clustered down your dining table as a Thanksgiving centerpiece.

Some of Our Favourite Pumpkins

This year, look for these unique and eye-catching pumpkin varieties at GARDENWORKS:

• Cinderella – A flattened, red-orange beauty, straight out of a fairy tale.
• Foggy Morning – A cool-toned pumpkin in blue-grey, perfect for stacking.
• Warty Goblin – Spooky and fun, with bumpy green warts across its skin.
• Black Futsu – A smaller pumpkin with dark skin and a sweet, nutty flavour.

Celebrate the Season of Pumpkins

Pumpkins are more than decorations—they’re a celebration of fall itself. Whether you’re filling your porch with colour, baking the perfect pumpkin pie, or discovering a new heirloom variety, let this autumn be the season you truly embrace pumpkins.

Visit your local GARDENWORKS to explore our full selection. Availability may vary by location.