It’s undeniable that autumn has set in when you start spotting pumpkins scattered throughout the neighborhood. These gourds are not only festive and economical but also visually appealing, enhancing the charm of a front porch and making it appear invitingly snug. However, many decorators overlook an important detail: there’s a proper and improper way to showcase them.
This is due to the fact that, much like any other produce, pumpkins are quite sensitive to their environment. For instance, if they are continually exposed to the sun, you might find yourself dealing with a mushy, unappealing mess well before Halloween arrives. Placing them too close to the house, on the other hand, could attract pests. Moreover, simply placing them directly on a wooden porch railing can lead to unintended consequences.
If you want your pumpkins to remain vibrant throughout the autumn season, perhaps even into Thanksgiving, here are some key points on where not to place them.
It might seem counterintuitive, but pumpkins are not particularly fond of direct sunlight. While they require sunlight for growth when planted, once they are ripe and harvested, the situation changes. Without the protective covering of leaves and vines, pumpkins can overheat and dry out when exposed to direct sunlight, especially if your front porch faces south or west. This can transform them from firm and vibrant to soft and speckled. In essence, heat accelerates the decomposition process, particularly if they have been carved.
Instead, store pumpkins in a shaded area with good air circulation, such as beneath an overhang, on the north side of your porch, or under the branches of a tree. This will keep them cooler, slow down their decomposition, and preserve their fresh appearance for a longer duration.
As pumpkins begin to decompose (which is inevitable), they release moisture that attracts unwelcome visitors like ants, fruit flies, beetles, and even squirrels and mice. Consequently, when you place pumpkins against your home as they rot, the pests they attract can become an unwanted close neighbor. Insects, in particular, are drawn to the sweet smell of rotting pumpkins and can easily find their way into your home through cracks or vents.
Instead, position the pumpkins at least a foot away from exterior walls and entryways. A decorative bench, a low garden wall, or a set of steps can serve as an effective barrier. This will allow you to maintain a welcoming autumn display without the risk of unwanted pests.
Pumpkins retain a significant amount of moisture, which can seep out over time. When they sit directly on a wooden porch, deck, or concrete surface, the trapped moisture underneath creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew to grow, leaving unsightly, hard-to-remove stains. Additionally, the underside of the pumpkin can rot faster as it cannot dry out properly.
Instead, elevate the pumpkins on a layer of straw (which can also deter pests) to ensure good air circulation beneath them. For a more refined appearance, consider using plant risers.
It’s tempting to create a lavish pumpkin display, reminiscent of those found at farm stands. However, overcrowding them can trap heat and moisture, leading to faster decay. Clustering them tightly makes it harder to detect when one starts to spoil. And if one pumpkin in the middle of the pile begins to rot, the rest will likely follow suit soon after.
Instead, leave a few inches of space between each pumpkin. This not only makes your display look more purposeful but also aids in air circulation to keep them fresh.
Pumpkins prefer stable temperatures, so rapid changes such as freezing nights followed by warm, sunny days can weaken them. Once this happens, bacteria can enter, leading to early decay. If you live in an area prone to early frosts or late heatwaves, consider temporarily moving your pumpkins indoors. If heavy rain is expected, elevate them to prevent them from becoming soaked.
Instead, keep them close to your entryway or garage so they can be moved if necessary. Alternatively, opt for varieties with thicker rinds that can better withstand temperature fluctuations.
It’s not necessarily about where not to place them, but it’s worth mentioning. If you’re the type who enjoys autumn activities as soon as you feel a chill in the air (or even before), you’re not alone. However, you might want to delay pumpkin carving until later in the season. Once you carve into one, the interior is exposed to oxygen, bacteria, and insects, which initiates the decomposition process almost immediately. Even if you adhere to the other guidelines with your jack-o’-lantern, it will still begin to deteriorate within a few days to a week, especially if you’re in a warmer climate.
Instead, save the carving for a few days before Halloween, or use artificial pumpkins if you want that look earlier in the season. You can still decorate with uncarved ones by painting them in the meantime.
