How to Choose the Best Pumpkins Every Time (Tips & Tricks)
Pumpkin season is upon us! And no matter if you are making pumpkin pies or carving Halloween decoration, you need to find the perfect pumpkin for the task. Depending on the purpose, there are different tips and tricks to help you choose the best pumpkin every time! If you want to become a master at choosing pumpkins this fall, you have come to the right place! In this article, we will show you how to choose the best pumpkins every time. Our tips and tricks will help you become a true master at picking pumpkins, so make sure to remember them:
Time to see how to choose the best pumpkins every time
In this article
How to Choose the Best Pumpkins Every Time (Tips & Tricks)
#Think About the Purpose
As we mentioned, the selection processes with pumpkins highly depends on your purpose. For example, if you want to buy pumpkins for decoration, choose interesting shapes to help get you in the spooky mood. When choosing pumpkins for carving, make sure to look for a large, uniform shaped pumpkin. If you plan on making a delicious pumpkin pie, look for smaller but heavier fruits. They contain more pumpkin meat than the other varieties, so they are ideal for cooking!
Think about what you are going to use the pumpkins for
#Inspect the Color
When choosing pumpkins, it is also good to inspect the color. Pumpkins come in a variety of colors, and the choice largely depends on your personal preference, mood, and color scheme at home. One thing that you need to remember is that the pumpkins are ready for harvesting after the vines dry up. That is exactly when the pumpkin turns into its expected color. However, if you pick the pumpkin before the vines have dried up, you will most likely stop the color from developing fully. So, remember that once you cut the vine, the color will stay the same!
When the vines have dried up, the pumpkin is ready for harvesting
#Avoid Soft Spots
Remember that soft spots on pumpkins are always a bad sign. They are often related to high levels of moisture, rotting, mold, or even insects. So, be sure to inspect the pumpkins carefully and if you notice soft spots and dark bruises, do not buy it. Also, do not forget to check the bottom part of the pumpkin, as well. Even the smallest hole can be enough to completely rot and spoil your Halloween decoration.
Carefully inspecting the pumpkin is a must before buying
#Examine the Stem
Another part of the pumpkin you need to pay extra attention to is the stem. A healthy stem means a healthy pumpkin, so look for green and brown stems that look sturdy and not damaged. You do not want the stem to be loose or wobbly, either. All of these are signs that the pumpkin is most likely old and starting to rot and decay.
Do not underestimate the condition of the pumpkin stem
#Inspect the Bottom
The bottom is an important thing to consider, especially if you plan on using these pumpkins for carving and decorations. So, pick up the pumpkin you like and try placing it on a flat surface. If it rolls, and it is not stable, it is probably not the best option for your Halloween decorations.
You want to pick a pumpkin that will stay flat and stable as a decoration
#Tap Before Buying
The last step before you purchase your chosen pumpkin is to tap it! If you want to make decorations and Jack O Lanterns, you need to look for a hollow sound. However, if you plan on cooking with that pumpkin, look for a dull sound that will indicate that the walls of the pumpkin are thicker. This will give you ore material to cook with! Also, keep in mind that after you carve your pumpkins, they won’t be good for eating.
Tapping the pumpkin will help you choose the best one for your purpose
#Carry it in Your Arms
One mistake almost everyone does with pumpkins is to carry them by their stem. In reality, the stem is not a handle, and it cannot hold the weight of the entire pumpkin. Moreover, if you break the stem, your pumpkin will go bad within days! So, be careful when you finally buy and carry your pumpkin home. Hug it with both of your hands, so that the stem is protected from damage!
Holding and carrying the pumpkin by the stem is a big no-no!
Now you know how to choose the best pumpkins this fall!
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