Pumpkins that are harvested before they fully ripen will rot more quickly than those harvested at peak maturity. A mature pumpkin will have a hard rind that
is solid in color. The pumpkin should also make a hollow sound when thumped. Mature pumpkins will have a waxy coating which protects them from drying out.
After harvesting, keep your pumpkins cool and out of direct sunlight to increase longevity. Carved pumpkins have a much shorter shelf-life, sometimes only a few days up to a week before noticeable rotting occurs.
To extend the life of carved pumpkins clean the inside thoroughly, removing all seeds and loose string. Soak the inside of the pumpkin in a 10% bleach-water solution for several hours. Avoid using a real candle inside the pumpkin since the heat will speed up rotting. Pumpkins have a high-water concentration, so if there’s a freeze in the forecast, bring your jack-o-lanterns inside.
