How long after you pick pumpkins can you use them?

Question:I have heard you should store them for a while before eating them as otherwise they are too starchy. I have Jap/Kent pumpkins. Can anyone advise me on storage and how long to wait before using them after picking?

Answers:
Once the pumpkin is "ripe" (good color, hard shell), it's really about as good as it's going to get.
If you live in an area with early frost problems, then the vine could die with unripe fruit that WILL ripen more on their own, but still won't be as good as the mature one, ripe at harvesting, handled carefully after picking.
Winter squash has been valued in times before refrigeration due to their ability to keep for months (some varieties), but that doesn't mean the flavor improves during that period.