How to Keep Your Pumpkins Fresh All Season Long

One of the questions we hear most often at Porch Gourds is: “How do I keep my pumpkins from rotting before Thanksgiving?”Good news — there are a few simple ways to help your pumpkins stay fresh, colorful, and beautiful well into late fall.

Start by choosing pumpkins that are firm and unblemished. Avoid ones with soft spots or cracks, which invite bacteria. Once you get them home, clean them with a gentle vinegar-water solution — it kills surface mold without harming pets or wildlife like bleach can.

Keep your pumpkins dry and out of direct sunlight. In Durango’s sunny fall weather, even a shaded porch can help them last longer. If possible, elevate them slightly on hay, wood, or mats to allow airflow underneath.

Want to go the extra mile? Spray them with a light coat of vegetable oil or clear sealer to lock in moisture.

Even with the best care, nature happens. Replace any soft pumpkins as needed — it keeps your display looking fresh all season long.

At Porch Gourds, we hand-select pumpkins that are known for their durability and longevity, so you can enjoy your porch display long after the leaves have fallen.