6 Pumpkin Decorating Hacks You Need to Try

Pumpkins are arguably the most popular elements for autumn decor. You can showcase them simply for fall or Thanksgiving decorations, carve eerie faces or designs for Halloween, and even incorporate them into desserts and various treats. If you purchase fresh pumpkins each fall, here are several pointers to maximize their use!

1. Opt for Local Pumpkins

Instead of buying from a supermarket or major store, consider local farmer’s markets or cider mills. These locations offer fresh pumpkins that haven’t been transported or mishandled. Even though pumpkins are tough-skinned, they remain delicate and can be damaged if not kept in the right conditions or temperatures. For better quality, choose local options.

2. Select the Perfect Pumpkin

While seeking the biggest pumpkin might be common, ensure you have additional criteria. Look for a pumpkin with a flat base that stands upright to withstand elements like rain and wind. Also, inspect for any soft spots or dark discolorations, as these can indicate internal rot. Overall, aim for a pumpkin that is strong, durable, and healthy.

3. Buy a Few Extras

Given pumpkins’ versatility, why not capitalize on it? Pumpkins can be displayed, carved, painted, and used in tasty fall recipes. You can carve a pumpkin and utilize the pulp and seeds in recipes, but for others like purees, you’ll need the flesh, so taking one or two extra is wise.

4. Diversify Your Display

Pumpkin season spans from September through November, offering ample time to create a beautiful outdoor exhibit! Healthy, uncarved pumpkins can last 8-12 weeks. They are naturally attractive, so if you prefer a natural look, mix your pumpkin arrangement with smaller gourds and green or white pumpkins. If you enjoy DIY, adding personal touches with paint, burlap, twine, lace, beads, and various materials can be fabulous. Halloween is also the prime season for carving! Which brings us to…

5. Avoid Early Carving!

Though carving pumpkins is a highly anticipated activity, many start too early. Early carving can result in a droopy, withered pumpkin by Halloween night. Post-carving, pumpkins last just a few days, so the 29th or 30th of October is ideal for carving. This is another reason to pick up extras early; you’ll want some intact pumpkins for the rest of the fall season after Halloween!

6. Properly Dispose of Your Pumpkins

Instead of discarding old pumpkins in the garbage, there are eco-friendly ways to dispose of them! If your pumpkins were not treated with chemicals, you can use the interiors and rind in recipes, smash them for wildlife, compost them, take them to a local organic recycling center, or even donate them to a nearby zoo as a treat for the animals!