Pumpkin Picking 101: Tips to Pick, Buy, and Carve Like a Pro in North Dakota

5 Tips for Picking the Best Pumpkin:

1. Check for soft spots and mold: North Dakota's weather can be tough on pumpkins! Make sure to check for soft spots and mold, especially underneath. Press gently with your thumbs—if it feels mushy, it’s past its prime.
2. Look for a sturdy stem: Pumpkins with intact stems last longer. A dark green stem means it’s freshly picked, while a brown one could mean it’s been sitting for a while.
3. Give it a tap: Knock on the pumpkin like you're checking for secrets! A hollow sound means it’ll be easier to carve, which is perfect for your creative designs on a chilly night.
4. Go for flat walls and shallow ribs: A smooth, flat surface makes carving much easier. Avoid tall, oblong pumpkins—they might look cool, but their stringy insides can make cutting tricky.
5. Check for balance: Found the one? Before you commit, set it on a flat surface to see if it sits upright. You don’t want a pumpkin that wobbles on your porch when the North Dakota winds pick up!

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When to Buy and Carve Your Pumpkin:

• Best Time to Buy:
  • If you’re looking for décor throughout October, aim to buy in early to mid-October. Store it in a cool, dry place to keep it fresh.
  • For those focusing on Halloween displays, buy in the last two weeks of October for peak freshness.
• Best Time to Carve:
  • Carving should ideally happen 3-5 days before Halloween to keep your jack-o'-lantern looking fresh. Pumpkins start decaying once cut, so timing is key—especially with North Dakota's temperature swings.
• Pro Tip: After carving, rub the cut edges with petroleum jelly or give the pumpkin a quick soak in a water-bleach solution (1 tablespoon bleach per gallon of water). This helps slow down mold and decay. (Do not do this if you plan to feed the pumpkin to wildlife).

Now you're ready to pick out a pumpkin that'll impress the neighbors or spook the trick-or-treaters. Happy pumpkin hunting, and enjoy those beautiful fall vibes!