1. Select pumpkins that are vert fresh and firm. Avoid choosing a pumpkin that has bruised or soft areas or cuts or other visible blemishes.
2. Remember that warm weather and hot sunlight can speed decay in a pumpkin. If you live in a hot climate be sure to store your uncut pumpkins in a cool spot and wait to carve them until a day or two before Halloween.
3. Heat from electric lightbulbs and candles can also contribute to the early demise of a pumpkin. Try cutting a hole in the top of the pumpkin, allowing heat to escape.
4. Try Covering all cut edges of a pumpkin, as well as the entire interior, with petroleum jelly or vaseline. This will reduce moisture loss and keep a pumpkin looking fresh longer.
5. Or try soaking your pumpkin before and after carving in a bleach and water mixture to keep mold from growing.
6. Or try spraying carved pumpkins with acrylic finish spray. The spray is intended to seal the pumpkin flesh, preventing dehydration and acting as a barrier to mold growth.
7. The best known method I’ve heard is to spray/treat your carved pumpkin with ‘Pumpkin Fresh.’ This unique product has a breakthough formula that fights mold, rot and decay. Its biodegradeable and eco friendly. Available for purchase Here. – Taryn Cox for The Wife
