How To Make Your Pumpkin Last Until Halloween
Making your pumpkin last until Halloween comes with challenges. When our son was young, I always wanted to carve the pumpkin at the beginning of October. However, sometimes that promoted early decay of the gourd. And, we ended up needing a second one. So, if you want to carve early rather than later, here are some tips to make your pumpkin last until Halloween. In essence, pumpkins are a fruit. Therefore, we need to handle them in a similar way. When shopping for a pumpkin, check for dents and damage. Check to be sure the stem is in tact and not loose. Also, look for water spots. You don’t want any on the outside. Experts say fungus can begin any time from when the pumpkin leaves the vine. They also suggest buying straight from the pumpkin patch if possible. Another tip is to use a bleach wipe to clean the pumpkin. When it’s time to carve, use a clean knife or tool to avoid cross-contamination. While carving, a bad smell may signal the need to use a different pumpkin. And, try to remove as much flesh from inside as possible. That step cuts down on fungus growth. Although the gourd can rot in a week, there are tips to help slow that down. Some folks suggest spraying with bleach or wiping the outside with lemon juice. And, to keep your pumpkin dry, display it under a covered porch. Extreme temps take a toll on the jack-o-lantern. So, bring it inside if the forecast calls for freezing or extremely hot weather. You probably already do this, but use a glow stick or battery-operated light for illuminating. Candles lead to faster decay. And, try to keep your gourd away from curious squirrels or animals. Although this sounds like a lot of maintenance, if you take pride in your creation it’s worth it!
This Pumpkin Carving Life Hack Is A Game Changer
