How do I know if a pumpkin/squash is ripe?

[mm84321]

Without slicing it open, what are the signs to look for?

[jmacnaughtan]

I'd say the colour is a good indicator.  That and the size- if it's bright orange and pushing 5kg, I'd say it's ripe.

 

Also, I don't think squash can be overripe- I'm pretty sure they just keep growing until they're picked, drain all the nutrients from the plant or collapse under their own weight.

[Shelby]

We grew pumpkins this year.  In fact, I just took them off the porch and threw them out into the field for the deer to munch on  If the pumpkin is still on the vine, the little curly guys around the stem will become brown and dry when the pumpkin is ripe.  Also, you test the stem.  If it is soft, do not pick yet, it will become hard when it is ready.  Another indicator is the sound....kinda like a watermelon....when  you thump it, it should sound hollow if ripe.  

 

I am going to assume you're talking about squash as in an acorn squash or a spaghetti squash, not like a zuke, right?  I use my fingernail and poke them....if I can't dent the skin,  they are ready to eat.  

[Jenny@SnP]

Agree with @jmacnaughtan. Usually, ripe pumpkins turn orange. Also try to give it a good thump. If it sounds hollow, that pumpkin is probably ripe already. Also, ripe pumpkins have hard skin. 

[sparrowgrass]

Shelby has it--if you can poke your thumbnail into a pumpkin or squash, it is not ripe.