I head to the North Fork every fall to buy pumpkins, usually after the BHG Stylemaker event. My favorite place to stop is Krumpski’s on Main Rd in Southold. I usually get about 16 to 20 pumpkins of all sizes, along with some organic produce. I layer the outdoor areas and add a few indoors as well. The only concern I have when buying pumpkins early is preservation, as I want them to last until Thanksgiving.
I’ve tried a few things over the years, and these are my favorite ways to preserve your pumpkins so they last all season. The first method is to soak them in 1 teaspoon of bleach per gallon of water for an hour. You can do this outside in a sink (I use a storage tub) or your tub, but make sure it’s not a bathtub or separate tub.
The second way is to wash them with a tablespoon or two of dish soap per gallon of water. When they are dry, you can spray them with rubbing alcohol. Again, you can do this outside or bring them inside to soak. A wheel barrel is always handy for this type of task.
The second method is non-toxic, so if you decide to let the wild animals enjoy the food after the season is over, it will be even better. The third method that is safe for animals is to mix 1 tablespoon of peppermint castile soap with 4 cups of water in a spray bottle. Spray the inside (if carved) and outside generously. The fourth method is good old vinegar. Mix one part vinegar with three parts water in a spray bottle. Be sure to wash the gourd with a simple cloth and water and let it dry before spraying it with anything.
Catch up on the fall content you missed. These handmade papier-mâchĂ© pumpkins were fun and easy to make. And the best part is, it only cost me $5 to make all six. If you’re looking for faux pumpkins, we’ve got you covered, too.
Have a happy pre-autumn day, my friend!
