Pumpkin Care 101

by Jon Henry September 13, 2023

How to Care for Live Pumpkin Decorations

Live pumpkin decorations are a great way to add a touch of fall to your home or garden. However, they can be tricky to care for, so it's important to know what to do to keep them looking their best.

Here are a few tips for caring for live pumpkin decorations:

Choose the right pumpkin. Not all pumpkins are created equal. When choosing a pumpkin for a live decoration, look for one that is firm. Avoid pumpkins that are soft or are starting to rot.
Place the pumpkin in a sunny location. Pumpkins need plenty of sunlight to thrive. Place your pumpkin in a spot where it will get at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Protect the pumpkin from pests and diseases. Pumpkins are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, such as aphids, mildew, and rot. Inspect your pumpkin regularly and treat any problems promptly.

With proper care, your live pumpkin decoration will last for many weeks, providing you with beauty.

Here are some additional tips:

If you live in a cold climate, you may need to bring your pumpkin indoors during the winter. Place it in a cool, bright location.
If you are carving your pumpkin, be sure to clean the inside thoroughly to remove any bacteria. You can also spray the inside of the pumpkin with a solution of bleach and water to help prevent mold.
If your pumpkin starts to wilt or dry out, you can give it a boost by giving it a bath in a bucket of water. Soak the pumpkin for 30 minutes, then let it dry completely before putting it back on display.

With a little care, you can enjoy your live pumpkin decoration for many weeks to come.