Top 10 pumpkin tips

Pumpkin-picking season is here. And whether you are getting a pumpkin from a local patch, farmers market or grocery store, you will want to pick a good one. We have a few tips that will help you in choosing a pumpkin, carving it and keeping it lasting fresh throughout the month.

1. When choosing a pumpkin, look for ones that are very fresh and firm. Avoid pumpkins that are bruised or have cuts. Pumpkins should have a flat base so they will sit up straight. Make sure the pumpkin you choose is large enough for the design you want to carve. The smoother the skin on a pumpkin, the easier it is to draw on and carve.

2. If you purchase your pumpkin early, you can store it in a cool, dry place until you are ready to display or carve.

3. When cutting the top of the pumpkin, angle the point of your knife toward the stem. This gives the lid a place to sit and will prevent it from falling through the hole.

4. Using a large flat paddle scoop is the fastest way to clean the inside of the pumpkin.

5. When using templates or stencils, tape the stencil to the pumpkin and use a piercing tool to trace around the design. This will leave little perforations on the pumpkin and carving will be super-easy.

6. If the cut edges of your jack-o’-lantern are curling, re-hydrate the pumpkin by soaking it in a tub of water overnight. After removing, allow the pumpkin to drain for half an hour and pat dry. Soaking a pumpkin in a solution of 1 teaspoon bleach per gallon of water will help inhibit mold growth.

7. Hydrate your pumpkin! While your jack-o’-lantern is on display, periodically mist it with water to help keep it hydrated. Covering a jack-o’-lantern with a damp towel will keep it hydrated when it is not on display. At night, wrap your jack-o’-lantern in plastic and refrigerate. This will slow the aging process.

8. After carving, coat the cut edges and the inside of the jack-o’-lantern with petroleum jelly. This will help seal in moisture. Vegetable oil can also be used. Spraying hairspray on the inside of your pumpkin will help increase its life span.

9. Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on the underside of the pumpkin top for a nice scent when the candle inside your jack-o’-lantern is lit.

10. Battery-operated faux candles are a safe alternative to candles and can be found in a variety of sizes.