The DIY Solution That Makes Pumpkins Last Longer

Pumpkin-everything season is in full swing! The leaves are changing and temperatures are dropping, creating the perfect ambience for Halloween. While there are many fun and creative ways to decorate with pumpkins, there is one spooky season tradition that is a must-do: Pumpkin carving. Carving pumpkins and turning them into jack-o'-lanterns is a tradition that originated in Ireland. Originally created from turnips, pumpkins became the go-to gourd for creating the décor items that are said to help scare away lost souls. However, since pumpkins are prone to rotting after a bit of time, there are ways you can preserve your porch protector beyond Halloween. This DIY solution uses items you may already have stocked in your home. All you'll need to stop decay in your jack-o'-lantern is lemon juice, water, hydrogen peroxide, and an essential oil of your choosing. You'll also need a spray bottle to store your concoction.

Mix 6 ounces of lemon juice and 6 ounces of water together. Add 2 to 3 ounces of hydrogen peroxide and several drops of your selected essential oil to the mixture. Pour your solution into the spray bottle, shake it a few times to combine everything together, and apply liberally to your pumpkin. This DIY pumpkin preserving solution can work on both carved and uncarved pumpkins. Be wary of using this solution around animals, though, as essential oils and hydrogen peroxide are not safe around pets or other creatures. For an animal-friendly solution, try preserving your carved pumpkin with vinegar.

What makes this potion perfect for preserving artistically-carved pumpkins? Each ingredient has a role in safeguarding and preventing mold and bacteria from forming and ultimately deteriorating your orange squash. The familiar components are also common household ingredients that can be used to clean and disinfect various surfaces and items in your home. As they are composed of elements found in nature, these ingredients, specifically hydrogen peroxide and lemon juice, are considered natural disinfectants, not contaminated with manmade chemicals. Water is added to the mix to dilute the hydrogen peroxide in the solution to make it less potent and harmful to the squash.

Hydrogen peroxide, for one, is composed of water and an extra dose of oxygen. By having that extra oxygen molecule, the liquid can kill germs, microorganisms, fungi, bacteria, and more. Likewise, lemon juice is a citric acid, which is also known for its disinfecting properties. While not as potent at disinfecting as other cleaning agents, the citrusy juice can kill and prevent mold and bacteria from sending your pumpkin to an early grave. Adding essential oils, like lavender or lemongrass, helps deter critters and insects from gathering on and eating your spooky squash. By reducing the chances of mold, bacteria, and other contaminants from taking refuge or taking a bite out of your carved pumpkin, you can increase the longevity and lifespan of your spiritual porch protector, keeping your home safe from wandering souls and decorated for the season for longer.