How To Preserve Pumpkins For Fall Decorating

by Dawn @ Creative Cain Cabin

Make those pumpkins and gourds last through the season longer, with this easy to do method.

how to preserve pumpkins for fall decorating, cleaning tips, outdoor living, painting, seasonal holiday decor

By now most of you are probably in full swing with your Fall decorating, I know I am and I like my pumpkins and gourds to last as long as possible. Ideally if you can preserve them you can also use them for your Halloween and even Thanksgiving decor if you live in a cooler climate.

Here’s a great tip for extending the life of your pumpkins.

1. Wash in a mild solution of bleach, water, and dish soap. 1 gallon water, 2 Teaspoons bleach, and a drop of Dawn dish soap.

2. Scrub with a soft brush to remove dirt.

3. Dry thoroughly, turning over every few hours.

4. Give them a coat of clear spray paint.

This process removes any spores that can cause early rotting. You should get an additional 3-4 weeks out of your pumpkins before they start to spoil. If you live in a hot climate keep the pumpkins in a cool location until you’re ready to decorate such as a basement or garage, and place them on newspaper to absorb any dampness. Happy Fall Decorating everyone.

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4 of 49 comments

Erica Forsyth on Oct 05, 2018

You're not suppose to mix dish soap with bleach because it has ammonia and produces a poisonous gas.

3 Reply
- Dotsonam on Sep 16, 2019
  
  Dish shop like DAWN contains no ammonia. It is more common in windows cleaners and all purpose sprays
  
  4
Sandra L on Oct 09, 2018

I have been doing this for years with my pumpkins......

1 Reply
- Jo Chandler,Martinez Ga on Nov 06, 2018
  
  I also use this method and it works great,others may have a different method.Good luck and HAPPY THANKSGIVING.
  
  3