Could you please tell me how I know when to pick the pumpkins off the vine. Eric
Harvest them when they are a deep orange in colour but still firm to the touch. Generally 120 days from sowing or when they weigh around 1.5 kgs.
Another method is to see if the stem is turning woody - if it is then harvest right away. However take care not to puncture the skin of the pumpkin as this will mean it will not store well.
And don't forget to leave some stem on the pumpkin when harvesting for longer storage life and to prevent rot.