5 Tips to Store Pumpkins for a Spooky Halloween

Halloween is just around the corner, and pumpkins are an essential part of the festivities. Whether you want to carve, bake, or decorate with pumpkins, proper storage is crucial. Here we have 5 tips on how to store pumpkins to keep them fresh to help you ready for your Halloween celebrations.

Choose the Right Pumpkins:

Start by selecting healthy, mature pumpkins. Look for ones that have firm skin, vibrant color, and a sturdy stem. Avoid pumpkins with any signs of damage, cuts, or soft spots, as they won’t store well.

Clean and Dry:

Before storing your pumpkins, clean them. Wipe off any dirt and debris using a damp cloth or sponge. Allow them to air dry to prevent mold growth during storage.

Ideal Temperature and Humidity:

The key to successful pumpkin storage is maintaining the right temperature and humidity levels. Pumpkins thrive in dark, cool, dry conditions. Aim for them:

   🎃 Temperature: Store pumpkins in a dark, cool place like a basement or a well-ventilated pantry, away from direct sunlight. Pumpkins are sensitive to sunlight, which can cause them to ripen and deteriorate. Besides, avoid exposure to frost or extreme cold, as it can damage the pumpkin’s flesh. Aim for an ideal temperature range between 50-55°F.

  🎃 Humidity: Keep the humidity levels low, around 50-70%. High humidity can lead to mold, while low humidity can cause the pumpkins to shrivel. Put your pumpkins on a wooden or cardboard surface to keep them off the ground, or place a small fan in the storage area can help maintain adequate air circulation.

If you have a central air conditioner or heat pump, like our InverterCool® Heat Pumps, this will become easy. Just set it in advance, and you can keep a comfortable indoor temperature and your pumpkins in the right humidity while saving energy bills.

Keep Them Separate:

Keep your pumpkins separate from fruits and vegetables that release ethylene gas, like apples, bananas, or tomatoes. Ethylene can stimulate the ripening process and lead to premature decay. When you notice any signs of damage or rot on your pumpkins, remove them to prevent any spread to other pumpkins in storage.

Store Cut Pumpkins:

If you’ve already carved or cut your pumpkins, wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate them. Carved pumpkins have a shorter shelf life and need colder storage to stay fresh.

With the right conditions and a little care, you will enjoy fresh and vibrant pumpkins for your Halloween festivities. So, follow these guidelines, and your Halloween celebration will be spooky!