Your pumpkin tips and questions, answered
Your questions, answered
About Bay Baby Produce
Who paints the pumpkins?
They just grow that way on our magical farm :)
Are your painted pumpkins edible?
Technically, yes, all of our pumpkins — both painted and ornamental — are edible. However, our painted pumpkins and ornamental varieties are grown for their visual appeal, not their flavor. If you're looking for delicious eating, we recommend choosing our certified Organic Winter Squash instead.
Are your products organic?
Our Organic Winter Squash is USDA Certified Organic through the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA). Our ornamental and painted pumpkins are not certified organic, but they're grown with meticulous care and sustainable practices on our 800-acre Mount Vernon Skagit Valley farm.
Where are your products grown?
Everything is grown, packed, and shipped from our family farm in Mount Vernon, Washington, in the heart of Skagit Valley's rich agricultural region.
When are your products available?
We start shipping in August and continue through the fall season. Availability varies by product, so check our shop or contact us for current inventory.
Do you offer wholesale?
Yes! We work with retailers nationwide. Contact us for wholesale pricing and ordering information.
Winter Squash
What is winter squash?
Winter squash is a category of squash that includes varieties like butternut, acorn, spaghetti squash, and pumpkin. It's called "winter" squash because it's harvested at full maturity and has a thick, hard skin that allows it to be stored for months — often through the winter.
Where did winter squash originate?
Winter squash originated in the Americas, with evidence of cultivation dating back thousands of years. Native American tribes like the Iroquois and Cherokee grew winter squash as a dietary staple.
What are the nutritional benefits of winter squash?
Winter squash is a nutritional powerhouse. It's an excellent source of dietary fiber (which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight), plus vitamins A, C, and E, as well as potassium and magnesium. The antioxidants in winter squash have been linked to reduced inflammation and improved immune function.
How can I use winter squash in recipes?
Winter squash is incredibly versatile. Roast it, steam it, mash it, or use it as a base for soups and stews. It works beautifully in salads, stir-fries, and even desserts like pies and bread. Experiment with different cooking methods to find your favorite.
Any cooking hacks for preparing winter squash?
You know it! Here are a few:
- Pierce the squash with a fork and microwave it for a couple of minutes to make cutting easier.
- Use a pressure cooker or Instant Pot for faster cooking.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with herbs or spices before roasting for maximum flavor.
- Save and roast the seeds for a delicious, nutritious snack.
How should I store winter squash?
Store winter squash in a cool, dry place at 50–60°F (10–15°C). Choose squash with no soft spots or blemishes, and they'll last for several months.
Can I freeze winter squash?
Absolutely. Winter squash at your summer cookout? We like where your head’s at! Cook it first, then peel, seed, and cut into cubes or puree it. Blanch briefly in boiling water before freezing. Properly stored, frozen winter squash lasts up to 12 months.
Can I eat the skin of winter squash?
Winter squash skin is edible, especially when cooked, though some varieties have tougher skins that are better peeled. Ultimately, though, it's a matter of personal preference. We recommend Delicata squash for the best skin-on eating experience!
Can I substitute one type of winter squash for another in recipes?
Yes, in most recipes you can substitute one variety for another. Keep in mind that different types have slightly different flavors and textures, so you may need to adjust cooking times and methods.
Pumpkins
What is a pumpkin?
A pumpkin is a type of winter squash in the Cucurbitaceae family. It's typically round or oval with thick, orange or yellow skin and a pulpy interior filled with seeds.
Where did pumpkins originate?
Pumpkins originated in North America, particularly in what is now Mexico and Central America. They've been cultivated for thousands of years and are now a symbol of fall and harvest season.
What are the nutritional benefits of pumpkins?
Pumpkins are low in calories and fat, but rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants. The vibrant orange color comes from beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body and supports eye health and immune function.
Can I eat all parts of a pumpkin?
Mostly! The flesh is commonly used in cooking, the seeds are edible (and delicious roasted), and some varieties have tender enough skins to eat when cooked. Tougher skins are typically removed before eating. And this probably goes without saying, but we definitely don’t recommend trying to eat the stem.
How can I use pumpkins in recipes?
Pumpkins are super versatile! Make pumpkin puree for pies, bread, and muffins. Roast pumpkin for soups, stews, salads, and pasta dishes. Roast the seeds for snacking or use them as toppings for salads, granola, or baked goods. Pumpkins are great for pets with upset tummies, and a natural dewormer as well.
Any cooking hacks for preparing pumpkins?
Yes! You know we have all the tricks when it comes to cooking a perfect pumpkin. Here are our favorites:
- Microwave the pumpkin for a couple of minutes or place it in the oven briefly to soften the skin and make cutting easier.
- Cut the pumpkin into large pieces and roast with the seeds still inside. Once cooked, the seeds separate easily from the flesh.
- For pumpkin puree, choose smaller sugar or pie pumpkins as they have a sweeter flavor and smoother texture than carving pumpkins.
What's the difference between a carving pumpkin and a pie pumpkin?
Carving pumpkins (also called jack-o'-lantern pumpkins) are bred for size and sturdy walls, making them perfect for carving but not ideal for eating (they're watery and bland.) Pie pumpkins (also called sugar pumpkins) are smaller, sweeter, and have denser, more flavorful flesh that's perfect for cooking.
Ordering & Shipping
Do you ship nationwide?
Yes! We ship our products across the country (and in some cases, globally) from our Mount Vernon, Washington facility.
How do I place a wholesale order?
Contact us directly through our Wholesale Inquiries page. We work with retailers nationwide and plan inventory well in advance, so reach out early to be sure you secure your order.
Can I visit your farm?
We're a working farm and warehouse facility, not a pumpkin patch open to the public. However, you can always find our products at retailers nationwide. Check our "Where to Find Us" page to locate a store near you.
