A few tricks and tips for extending the life of your carved pumpkin… 🎃

JACK-O-LANTERN HACKS

• Pick a long-lasting pumpkin. Look for even colored flesh without dings and dents.
• Poke your pumpkin for soft spots. A firm pumpkin has the longest potential lifespan.
• Pick local! Pumpkins that have not endured a country hike will likely have a longer porch life.

NATURAL WAYS TO PRESERVE YOUR PUMPKIN

• After carving your pumpkin, make an extra effort to remove all seeds and pulp.
• Soak in a water and peppermint dish soap. Peppermint is a natural anti fungal. Give it a good dunk before you carve.
• Consider refrigerating your carved pumpkin each night instead of leaving it on the porch.
• Spray the pumpkin thoroughly with a peppermint dish soap and water mixture each night and place in a plastic bag- this will rehydrate the pumpkin.
• If your pumpkin appears to be wilting, soak it in a bucket of water overnight.
• Make a fruit fly trap- there are several DIYs on Pinterest.