Perfect Pumpkin Picking Tips: How to Pick The Perfect Pumpkin

Is it just me or are those supermarket pumpkins expensive and full of blemishes and odd shapes? Finding the right pumpkin is a little easier when you go to a pumpkin farm. Not only do they have the right kind of pumpkins but they usually look healthier too. I’ve also found some amazing pumpkins when attending fall festivals. Picking a pumpkin from a pumpkin farm is a great way to make memories with the family. Before you go grab these perfect pumpkin picking tips.

Jack-O-Lanterns are bred specifically for carving, with their rigid walls, strong flesh, and hollow center which is perfect for holding a candle. There are other varieties that can also be carved. The Lumina has an orange interior flesh. When a candle is added it gives off a ghostly glow through its white skin.

 

Perfect Pumpkin Picking Techniques

To avoid getting a pumpkin that will spoil early, check pumpkin for…

• Soft spots
• Wrinkles
• Mold
• Cuts

Perfect Pumpkin Picking Tips for Carving

• A green stem is a good indicator that it was harvested not very long ago. You probably won’t find a green stem in the grocery store.
• Another indicator of a fresh pumpkin is a hard bottom. Turn the pumpkin over, and push on the bottom. If it gives or seems soft, it’s probably not fresh.
• Choose a pumpkin that’s firm, and heavy for its size.
• Make sure the pumpkin you choose has consistent coloring throughout.
• If you plan to carve your pumpkin, choose one that has a flat bottom. Do this by placing it on a flat surface to see if it sits level. This will help greatly if you plan to add a candle to the inside of your perfect pumpkin.

Perfect Pumpkin Picking Tips for Painting

Varieties to pick for painting can include Lumina, Orange Smoothie, & Cotton Candy. Any pumpkin with smooth skin, and small ridges is ideal for painting.

Perfect Pumpkin Picking Tips for Eating/Cooking

All pumpkin varieties are edible. Larger pumpkins contain less sugar. They are not only good for carving but can be used for soup, and other dishes. If you carve a pumpkin it will not be edible after using it for decoration. Smaller pumpkins contain more sugar and are perfect for muffins, breads and other desserts. Don’t forget that all of the seeds are edible also! Roasted pumpkins seeds are a favorite in our home each year.

 

I just love these peach colored pumpkins. We got some of these last year. At the end of the season I let the chickens eat them! Check out 3 Awesome Reasons For Feeding Pumpkins to Chickens.

 

 

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