How To Preserve Pumpkins So They Last Longer

One of my favorite fall traditions is going to a nursery to choose pumpkins. When my kiddos were younger, we would pick pumpkins for carving, but now that they’re older, I’m picking pumpkins for myself. Since it’s often still in the 90’s here in Texas, pumpkins don’t last very long – sometimes ‘melting’ well before Halloween. So, why does this happen, and what can I do to fix it? Let’s take a look at how to preserve pumpkins:

Causes Of Pumpkin Rot

Here are some of the common causes of the dreaded pumpkin rot:

• Uncured pumpkin – Choose a pumpkin with a dried, hard stem and a tough exterior. It should feel heavy for its size.
• Heat/full sun: Make sure your pumpkin has some shade, particularly if you live in a hot climate. I often wait until October before purchasing my pumpkins to ensure the worst of the heat is over. If you live in a humid environment, make sure your pumpkin is in the coolest place possible, and that it gets plenty of air circulation.
• Lack of airflow: Don’t store your pumpkins in plastic bags or anywhere that allows moisture to pool. Concrete can also contribute to rot. Either elevate your pumpkins slightly, or place wood or straw under them to help absorb moisture.
• Blemishes: Bruised or scratched pumpkins will rot very quickly, so handle with care.

Choosing Healthy Pumpkins

When you’re looking for pumpkins, it’s important to choose ones that are firm and healthy. Gently pick up the pumpkin and inspect it for soft spots, mold, or blemishes. It should have a healthy, strong stem that is free of mold. Handle the pumpkin carefully, avoiding scratching or dropping it. Any skin contusion will invite bacteria into the pumpkin, causing it to rot. You will not be able to preserve pumpkins that are already growing mold. Once you’ve chosen healthy pumpkins, we can move on to the next step.

Pumpkin Preserving Supplies

• Pumpkins
• Household bleach
• Clear spray sealer(optional)
• Bucket or tub of fresh water
• Scrub brush or rag (optional – to remove dirt)
• Dish gloves to protect your hands

Step 1: Remove Excess Dirt

The first thing you will need to do is gently brush away all the dirt (or critters) that may be on your pumpkin. I just gave mine a quick wipe with a dry paper towel. This will help keep your bleach solution much cleaner.

Step 2: Fill Tub Or Container

Next, you’ll fill a tub with fresh water. Add a good splash of bleach. Killing bacteria is the key to preserving pumpkins. You don’t need a strong solution for it to be effective, just eyeball the amount.

Step 3: Soak Your Pumpkins

Once you’ve gotten your bleach/water solution made, submerge the pumpkins in the water. If the entire pumpkin isn’t covered, you will need to flip it over halfway through the soaking. Set a timer for 30 minutes and allow the pumpkins to sit in the solution. If they sit longer, that’s okay!

Step 4: Dry The Pumpkins

Moisture invites rot, so it’s important to dry your pumpkins after removing them from their bath. You can towel dry them, or, lay them in an elevated place to air dry. I put mine in a garden wagon. It’s very important you make sure there is no water pooling at the base of the stem – this will cause rot.

Step 5: Spray With Sealant

Pumpkins cleaned with a bleach/water solution will last quite a while without any further steps, but if you want to preserve your pumpkins for even longer, seal them. IMPORTANT: Do not use sealer if you plan on tossing the pumpkins for wildlife to eat later. Obviously, this would be harmful to them. I am not sealing this batch, as I intend to let the deer eat these when I’m finished enjoying them.

If you choose, go ahead and give each pumpkin an even coat of clear spray sealant. Allow to dry in a well ventilated area.

Display Your Preserved Pumpkins

Voila! You’ve just preserved your pumpkins! Since it’s still in the uppers 80’s/low 90’s here, I’m displaying mine inside my fireplace. Once the weather cools down they’ll go on the porch. How will you display yours? Happy Nesting!