Extension Corner: Tips for helping your carved pumpkin masterpieces last longer

Eric Wright
·2 min read

Decorative gourds and pumpkins carved into jack-o'-lanterns are a sure sign that fall and the autumn celebration of Halloween are here. If you want your carefully carved masterpieces to live a bit longer, here are some tips to ensure you aren’t left with a rotting, soupy mess on your stoop.

First, there are a lot of microorganisms, insects, and other critters that would love to feast on your pumpkin that they see as a convenient snack left on your doorstep. By protecting your pumpkin from these spooky “bugs,” you can slow down the decomposition process.

When you pick your pumpkin, make sure that it has no soft spots, cracks, or bruises. These blemishes could indicate that rot has already started, or that the pumpkin may not be healthy.

A few simple steps can help keep your jack-o'-lantern fresh and spooky throughout the Halloween season.
A few simple steps can help keep your jack-o'-lantern fresh and spooky throughout the Halloween season.

Before you break out Dr. Frankenstein's saws, knives, and carving implements, wash your pumpkin with soapy water and rinse thoroughly. You can also dip your pumpkin into a bucket of water with bleach for 2 minutes (1 tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water).

Next, after you have carved your best spooky face into your pumpkin, ensure that you keep it away from other plants that need watering since additional moisture can encourage rotting. Also remember that your pumpkin shares a vampire-like aversion to sunlight, which can cause it to break down. Cool, shady spots with good air circulation will keep your jack-o'-lantern in top shape.

For safety's sake, especially with costumed trick-or-treaters, consider using a battery-operated light instead of candles. If your pumpkin starts to wilt, try soaking it in cold water. You can coat your pumpkin with a thin layer of petroleum jelly to keep the moisture inside its flesh.

If you have questions about pumpkins or decorative gourds or need information about any other Extension programs in our community, please reach out or stop by our office at 3200A W. Meighan Blvd., call us at 256-547-7936 or visit us on Facebook at https://bit.ly/3otwUdl or online at https://bit.ly/3yniPCx.

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Alabama A&M University and Auburn University) is an equal-opportunity educator and employer. Everyone is welcome! Please let us know if you have accessibility needs.

Eric Wright is extension coordinator for the Etowah County Extension Office.

This article originally appeared on The Gadsden Times: Extension Corner: Tips for preserving Halloween jack-o'-lanterns