We’ve officially entered the month of Halloween, and in about four weeks, kids across the country will be sporting their spookiest outfits for a night of trick or treating.
Many will be busy planning Halloween festivities, one of which might include pumpkin carving. For some, it’s a competition to see who can create the most impressive pumpkin design.
However, there’s a risk that if you carve too early, your pumpkin could rot before Halloween arrives.
To avoid this, Joshua Houston, Home Decoration Expert at Household Quotes, has shared some tips on when to buy your pumpkin and how to choose the perfect one.
When should you buy your pumpkin?
Interestingly, pumpkins can last anywhere from eight to twelve weeks, meaning you can start planning your pumpkin-picking trip now.
But when it comes to carving, you’ll want to wait until closer to Halloween. This is because once a pumpkin is cut open, it starts to decay and mould can form (which would indeed be truly terrifying).
Aim to start carving your pumpkin from October 26 onwards to ensure it stays fresh for Halloween night.
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Picking the perfect pumpkin
Avoid any pumpkins with damage or blemishes
When looking for the perfect pumpkin, avoid ones that are already damaged or have blemishes on them. You will know when one is blemished when it has marks on the outside that hinders its appearance.
These pumpkins rot quickly, and most likely won’t make it till the end of October.
Avoid soft pumpkins
When you pick up a pumpkin, check how soft it is. Hard pumpkins will last longer as one being soft is a sign that it’s already beginning to rot.
Look out for a green stem
If you go to a farm to pick your pumpkins, look out for ones that have a green stem. This will mean that the pumpkin is unripened which will result in it staying fresh for longer than those that don’t.
Think about the size
The size of your pumpkin should relate to your carving ability. Smaller ones are harder, so if you aren’t as crafty then maybe you should go big. This will give you more space to make the perfect creation.
Joshua Houston, Home Decoration Expert at Household Quotes said: ‘Halloween is some people’s favourite time of the year, they love scary movies, along with the cold cosy nights. Pumpkin carving is a big part of the history, it’s great fun for couples and families.
“Just make sure to be careful with those knives, the last thing you want is a trip to A&E when you should be preparing for Halloween night.”
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