How to Keep a Halloween Pumpkin Fresh
► Choose pumpkins that are very fresh and firm, avoiding any that may have bruised or soft areas, as well as any that have cuts or other visible blemishes.
► Store cut or uncut pumpkins in a cool dry place to keep them fresh longer.
► Warm weather and hot sunlight can speed decay in a pumpkin. If you live in a hot climate be sure to store your uncut pumpkins in a cool spot and wait to carve them until a day or two before Halloween.
► Once a pumpkin is carved, cover it with plastic for a day or two to help keep moisture in the pumpkin.
► Smaller cut pumpkins can be wrapped in plastic and stored inside the refrigerator for a few days before Halloween helpful if you are having a party and need to carve them ahead.
► Shriveled cut pumpkin can sometimes be revived temporarily by soaking it in a bucket of cool water for several hours, then draining thoroughly.
► Coat all cut edges of a pumpkin, as well as the entire interior, with a small paintbrush dipped in petroleum jelly. This is the best way to reduce moisture loss and keep a pumpkin looking fresh longer.
► Heat from electric light bulbs and candles can also contribute to the early demise of a pumpkin. Try cutting a hole in the top of the pumpkin, allowing heat to escape.
