How to Keep Pumpkins from Rotting Before Their Time

Tips

• Choose a pumpkin that is firm, with no soft spots, no cuts or blemishes, and that feels a little heavy for its size.
• Wash the outside of the pumpkin with a 10% diluted bleach solution before carving to remove microbes that cause decay. If feeding to livestock, use a 10% diluted vinegar solution instead.
• Remove every bit of pulp and wipe down all surfaces, inside and out, after carving to prevent bugs and other creatures from eating it.
• Keep the carved pumpkin out of direct sunlight and refrigerate it for up to ten days when not on display, especially in warmer climates.
• Smear a layer of petroleum jelly on the inside and the carved edges to retain moisture and prevent shriveling. Do not apply to the outside for appearance, and be aware that petroleum jelly is flammable, so do not use with actual candles.
• Do not use actual candles in carved pumpkins as the heat causes them to rot sooner; use battery-operated LED lights instead.
• Wash uncarved pumpkins with a 10% diluted bleach solution (or vinegar for livestock feed) to prevent microbes from turning them to mush.
• Avoid freezing temperatures for uncarved pumpkins; bring them in when temps drop below 32°F. They store best at temperatures between 50 and 60°F with humidity around 50 percent.
• Fend off pumpkin-eaters like squirrels by mixing hot sauce with water and spraying the pumpkins, repeating every few days or after rain. Commercial repellants can also be used but may have a strong smell.
• Water pumpkins just until fruit appears. Keep a steady irrigation schedule until fruit are set, then cut water off completely when fruit begin to turn color to reduce rotting risk.
• Let nature do her thing by leaving mushy fruit on vines, but gently lift healthy pumpkins and place them on a small wooden box, straw nest, or small pallet to protect them from getting too wet.
• Try raised beds and hills (3 to 4 feet wide) or growing vertically on a trellis/fence with hammocks from bean or pea netting to allow extra water to run off and provide support.