Tips to Make Your Carved Pumpkin Last

Want your creative carving to last all week long? Here are a few tips to keep your jack-o’-lantern fresh for up to 10 days:

  • Remove dirt: Wipe the exterior surfaces of the carved pumpkin clean using a damp cloth.
  • Treat with bleach solution: Combine 1 tablespoon of bleach per quart of water and put in a spray bottle. Spray the inside of your carved pumpkin and all of the cut surfaces with the solution. This will kill a lot of the surface bacteria and mold that cause rotting. Let the pumpkin sit for 20 minutes.
  • Rub the carved or cut surfaces with petroleum jelly. This will keep out new bacteria and molds and help prevent your jack-o’-lantern from dehydrating.
  • Keep your pumpkin out of direct sunlight and keep it as cool as possible – but above freezing.

Learn more about Illinois’ impressive pumpkin sector. 

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