How to Keep Your Pumpkins Fresh: A Simple Trick

There’s nothing like the warm glow of a carved pumpkin on a crisp autumn night or the charm of a perfectly placed pumpkin on your porch. However, one common issue for pumpkin lovers is rot. Despite best efforts, pumpkins often decay much sooner than expected. Luckily, there’s a simple trick to help preserve their beauty, and it’s surprisingly easy. Here’s what you need to know.

Understanding Pumpkin Decay

Before diving into the solution, it’s important to understand why pumpkins rot:

• Moisture: Water from rain or dew can seep into cuts or exposed areas, promoting mold and bacterial growth.
• Bacteria and Fungi: These microorganisms are naturally present and quickly colonize the pumpkin’s surface, especially when there’s moisture.
• Temperature Fluctuations: Warm days and cool nights cause the pumpkin’s skin to expand and contract, leading to cracks that invite decay.
• Insects and Pests: Insects can burrow into the pumpkin and speed up the rotting process.

The Simple Trick

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