The Pumpkin Decor Mistake That Is Inviting More Pests Into Your Home

The fall season is synonymous with pumpkins — whether for carving, painting, or displaying without alterations, many people flock to pumpkin patches to gather up their favorite outdoor decor. And with so many unique pumpkins to decorate with other than plain old orange, putting them outdoors during the fall season is a festive way to add charming variety to your home's exterior. While picking out the perfect pumpkins to put on display, a key detail that's easy to forget is the ideal placement around the property. This isn't just about the final look of your autumn-themed aesthetic — poorly positioned pumpkin decor may become a major invitation for pests to enter your home.

Putting your pumpkins too close to your house can lead to pest problems, both inside and outside your home. Pumpkins release moisture as they decompose, turning them mushy. Pests and insects, like mice and ants, are attracted to this moisture and the pumpkin's sweet odor, which only becomes more pungent and enticing as the gourd rots. Once they've feasted on the decaying pumpkin, those little critters will likely be drawn inside your home through cracks or gaps to find new food and shelter. Remembering how to store your pumpkins for the season is essential to keep these pests at bay.

Proper pumpkin storage isn't a one-step job — there are several things to keep in mind when displaying them. Most of these tips are meant to keep the rate of decomposition down. Since pumpkins are produce, they will eventually rot, leading to mush and mold and ultimately attracting unwanted pests. When putting your pumpkins outdoors, be sure to keep them out of direct sunlight, especially if carved. Direct sun can overheat any pumpkin decor, jump-starting its decomposition. Instead, try storing them in areas of your yard when there's ample shade, or move them throughout the day to avoid the sunshine.

Once you've found the perfect spot away from the house to display your pumpkins, you'll need to make sure they have room to breathe. Crowding them together may create a heat blanket, accelerating the rate of decay. Instead, leave some room between your pumpkins — at least a few inches — and keep them elevated off the ground, especially if they are not carved.

Beyond the proper ways to store your pumpkins, consider following the carving hack that keeps your pumpkin decor fresh for longer to help delay those initial pests. This includes cutting the bottom (not the top) of the pumpkin for your carving adventure and scraping the pulp clean from the interior. Many people also don't realize vinegar is a secret ingredient that can help carved pumpkins that really last, so consider spraying yours daily to slow down the rotting process and keep the pests away.