How to Preserve Pumpkins

How to Preserve Pumpkins to keep your fall decor looking cute for as long as possible. Real pumpkins are definitely not cheap so I try to keep mine looking healthy throughout the fall season.

Pumpkin Weather

I used to love going to the pumpkin patch and picking the biggest, cutest pumpkin I could find. I would be the first person in line when it came time to decorate for fall, but buying that early usually meant my pumpkins would already being starting to look not so hot by Halloween.

Now I live in Missouri, so we still have pretty warm weather in September and October. I try to use my pumpkins for inside decor while the temperature is still pretty hot. Pumpkins will last longer in cooler temperatures. Then I will move my pumpkins out on the front porch as the temperatures cool down.

Choosing the Perfect Pumpkin

You want to make sure to pick a pumpkin that is in good shape. You do not want to choose one that has any soft spots, mold, or sign of deterioration. The healthier your pumpkin is when you bring it home, the longer it will last.

So look for a pumpkin with a good solid stem and without any big imperfections. There is no such thing as the perfect pumpkin, but i bet you can find one perfect for you.

Now that you have chosen the perfect pumpkin, it is time to start prepping it to preserve. First, you want to get off any dirt, or loose particles with a dry towel or brush. Then, once it is good and wiped down you can prep your preserving solution.

I fill my kitchen sink up with cool water, dish soap, and bleach. You do not want to use hot water because this could start to cook your pumpkins. If your kitchen sink isn’t big enough you could also use a bucket or your bathtub.

Once your sink is full, let your pumpkins soak for 30 minutes or so. The bleach is perfect for killing bacteria that will cause your pumpkin to mold and rot. If you still have dirt or any of the blossom end still stuck to your pumpkin, make sure you clean these off well. Then lay them out on a towel, and let them dry completely. It’s as easy as that.

If you give preserving your pumpkins a try, be sure to tag me on Instagram. And follow along with The Four Acre Farm blog for more Easy Recipes, Gardening Tips, & Budget Friendly DIY.