As Halloween approaches, many Britons are buying pumpkins to decorate their homes. However, carved pumpkins can quickly rot, becoming unsightly and smelly. Gardening expert Leslie Vincent of Atkins shares five tips to keep pumpkins fresh until October 31.
Vincent advises purchasing a locally sourced pumpkin around 14 days before Halloween and carving it 10 days before the big day. Once carved, pumpkins typically last only three to seven days, so timing is crucial.
A surprising tip is to spray the carved pumpkin with WD-40. Vincent says coating the inside and outside with the spray retains moisture and kills bacteria, adding about a week to the pumpkin's life. However, WD-40 is flammable, so use LED lights instead of candles.
Another method involves soaking the pumpkin in a bleach solution. Submerge the carved pumpkin in water mixed with three teaspoons of bleach for two to three minutes, then let it dry. Alternatively, a vinegar soak (30 minutes) is safer for wildlife if the pumpkin is placed outside.
Finally, mist the pumpkin with water regularly to keep it moist, and store it in a dry, covered spot away from direct sun or rain. Avoid candles, as they dry out the fruit; opt for LED lights instead.
