Making Pumpkins Last
By Nancy Honig
Cooler Fall temperatures seem to bring out the pumpkin decorations for front porch displays. Unfortunately, they can begin to rot and turn that cute fall display into more of a Halloween nightmare. Here are some simple ways to keep your pumpkins longer.
Carved or whole, however, any jack-o-lantern will quickly lose quality if the pumpkin isn’t fully ripe. Before buying, try sticking your thumbnail through the rind. If you can, shop further. If you can’t, the pumpkin has set, so it isn’t likely to dry out so fast. Make sure there is no surface damage, bruises or signs of rotting. Select one that seems almost too heavy for its size. A stem on top is important/
It can also be helpful to remove bacteria and molds before carving or painting a jack-o-lantern. Simply wipe the surfaces with a household disinfectant or a solution that combines one part bleach with 10 parts water.
Things to avoid that contribute to deteriorating include setting your pumpkins where they can get damp at the base; multiple items sitting together; being outside in elements; staging them with other organic matter like hay or resting between two items. A well-drained area will prolong the life of the pumpkin, whether it’s carved or whole. Pumpkins last a fairly long time off the vine, but the post-harvest life depends on where you get them, how long they’ve been sitting and how they are displayed.
If you choose to cut up your pumpkin to display it know that it will deteriorate fairly quickly. A few ways to slow the process is to spread petroleum jelly on all the cut surfaces. This seal will keep the pumpkins moist and create a barrier to bacteria. Coat any exposed surfaces including the inside and the cut-out sections.
A great alternative to cutting pumpkins is to paint them. This will ensure your pumpkins last longer and still provide kids with a fun and safe activity. Sealing your pumpkin before you paint it is optional, but it helps to give you a good surface to paint on. Choose an aerosol or brush sealant and cover your pumpkin. It won’t necessarily preserve the pumpkin itself, but it can help with paint application. Use an acrylic paint to paint the pumpkin. You can spray it again with the sealant when you are done.
