Frequently Asked Questions

Seeds

When should I plant my seeds?

It depends on your USDA growing zone. In Kansas (Zone 6b), we recommend starting seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before your last frost date (typically mid-April) and transplanting outdoors after all danger of frost has passed. Each product page includes specific timing guidance. See our Growing Guide and Kansas Planting Calendar for detailed schedules.

How should I store my seeds?

Keep seed packets in a cool, dry, dark place. A sealed container in the refrigerator is ideal for long-term storage. Properly stored, most of our Cucurbita moschata seeds remain viable for 4-6 years.

What is your germination guarantee?

We test germination rates on every seed lot before packaging. While we guarantee viability at the time of shipping, growing results depend on soil, climate, and care, factors beyond our control. If you have any concerns about germination, contact us and we will make it right.

How are your seeds grown?

Our seeds are grown on our Newton, Kansas farm using permaculture and regenerative practices. We do not use synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. We are not a certified farm, but our methods follow regenerative principles, building soil biology, protecting pollinators, and growing without chemical inputs. Treated seeds are clearly labeled (e.g., New England Cheddar F1).

What does "heirloom" mean?

Heirloom varieties are open-pollinated seeds that have been passed down through generations, typically 50+ years. They breed true from saved seed, meaning you can save seeds from your harvest and grow the same variety next year. Most of our catalog is heirloom, with a few exceptional F1 hybrids clearly marked.

Do you sell live plants or just seeds?

We currently sell seed packets only. Seeds ship year-round and are much easier to transport safely than live plants.

Coffee

How fresh is your coffee?

Very. Our Kansas blends are roasted in small weekly batches by our Kansas roasting partner, and every order is packed fresh in Newton. Orders placed by Wednesday typically ship by Friday of the same week. Your coffee arrives days after roasting, not months.

What grind options do you offer?

Our coffee is available as whole bean or pre-ground, your choice at checkout. For the best flavor we recommend whole bean, ground fresh just before brewing. Want to dial in your method? See our home brewing guide.

What is the difference between the Kansas blends and the Harvest line?

The Kansas blends, like Prairie Sunrise, are roasted in Kansas by our roasting partner and come in 8 oz bags. The Harvest line is craft roasted for us in Missouri by a roaster we trust, then labeled and shipped from Newton in 12 oz bags. Everything is packed here either way.

Shipping & Orders

Where do you ship?

We currently ship within the United States only via USPS from Newton, Kansas. We hope to offer international shipping in the future.

How long does shipping take?

In-stock seeds and soap are normally processed within 1-2 business days. Coffee follows its weekly schedule; preorders follow the dispatch date on the listing. See our shipping policy for services, transit estimates and mixed orders.

Can I combine seeds and coffee in one order?

Absolutely. Shipping is calculated at checkout based on your total order weight. Mixing seeds and coffee in one order is the most cost-effective way to shop.

What is your return policy?

Due to the perishable nature of seeds and coffee, we generally do not accept returns. However, if your order arrives damaged or incorrect, contact us within 7 days and we will replace it or issue a full refund. Your satisfaction matters to us. See our full Refund Policy for details.

About Us

Where is your farm?

We are in Newton, Kansas, right in the heart of the state, Zone 6b. We offer varieties grown in our own garden and seed sourced from growers we trust. Check each variety for its growing needs and choose for your own season and conditions.

Can I visit?

Our backyard microfarm is not open for public visits. Find us at our listed farmers market appearances, explore photos on the site, or contact us with a question.

How can I contact you?

Email us at info@autumnprairiepumpkins.com or use our Contact Form. We respond within 1-2 business days.