Making a Jack-o-lantern for All Hallow’s Eve?

Pumpkins tend to start rotting within five to ten days but here are some things you can do make them last longer than that from Patch:

Pick a pumpkin that’s rock solid  Don’t pick one that’s already going bad…bruises and blemishes are big red flags.

Spray it with bleach and water  Just mix in a tiny bit of bleach and spray the whole thing down…it should help keep bacteria and mold away.

Put a cup of baking soda inside  It’ll absorb the extra moisture and help it last longer.

Smear the inside of it with Vaseline  A thin layer of petroleum jelly can also protect jack-o’-lanterns from moisture…and don’t forget to cover the lid and all the exposed parts you cut out, too…just don’t worry about the outside.

Pay attention to the weather  Make sure it doesn’t get rained on and bring it inside if it gets too hot OR cold out.  In general, jack-o’-lanterns last longest when the temperature is right around 60 degrees. Bringing it inside at night also helps by keeping the morning dew away.

Now let’s get carving!