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Keep the spooky spirit alive all October long by learning how to preserve your pumpkins!
With October comes a wealth of beloved fall traditions: spooky movies, Halloween candy, pumpkin spice lattes, and hearty casseroles. But one hallmark of the season that gets us excited long before the leaves begin to change is pumpkin carving. Whether you opt for the classic triangle eyes and toothy grin or get creative with intricate designs, transforming that orange orb into a Halloween icon is always a blast. However, if you’re wondering how long pumpkins last, you might be disappointed by the answer—it’s not very long! Luckily, there are easy ways to keep your delightful creations fresh all month long.
And let’s not forget, carving pumpkins leaves you with a bounty of seeds. Don’t miss out on the deliciousness of roasted pumpkin seeds or even pumpkin seed oil!
How to Preserve a Carved Pumpkin
Choose a Healthy Pumpkin: Start with a fresh pumpkin, free of soft spots or discoloration. Avoid any that are bruised. For tips on selecting the perfect pumpkin, check out our guide.
Preserve with Vinegar: To keep your carved pumpkins looking fresh throughout October, fill a large tub with a mixture of 10 parts water and 1 part vinegar. Soak the gourds for 20-30 minutes, then remove them and let them air-dry.
Why This Works: The vinegar kills any fungus, making it difficult for the pumpkin to rot. This method is also safe for wildlife, so if a squirrel or bird decides to munch on your pumpkin, they can do so without harm (hopefully after Halloween!).
Additional Tips:
Refrigerate When Not on Display: Keep your pumpkin in the refrigerator when it’s not on show.
Use Clear Acrylic Spray: Coat the pumpkin with clear acrylic spray to protect it from bugs and bacteria.
Opt for Battery-Operated Lights: Use battery-operated lights instead of candles to reduce heat exposure.
How to Preserve an Uncarved Pumpkin
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