PickYourOwn.org - Pumpkin Patches
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How to Choose a Pumpkin for Halloween

Choosing a pumpkin is easy! First...

Do you want it for December oration or eating?

December oration to paint or carve!

OK, Then you need only look for any pumpkin that is

visually appealing, evenly a deep orange. The shape is just whatever appeals to you. If it grew on its side and has a flat spot, you can either make that the make or use it as part of your design!
free from cuts, soft spots, bruises,The flesh should feel hard, and not give easily. Infections can invade easily and cause rot

Make sure the stem is attached.

Store it carefully, especially if you pick it from the vine yourself. Cure a fresh-picked pumpkin by keeping it in a dry place. Don't handle or disturb it. Curing toughens the rind, making it less prone to rot.

Tip: If you like roasted or baked pumpkin seeds, you can save the seeds from any pumpkin!

To make a pumpkin pie!

Then you need a small, sweet type of pumpkin that has been developed for eating. They are smaller, typically about 8" to 10" diameter. The meat is much less stringy and smoother than a decorative pumpkin variety. Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A and potassium. One-half cup of cooked pumpkin provides more than the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A. One cup of cooked pumpkin contains only 81 calories. It's low in fat and sodium! Usually you can get these at the grocery store, and some of the pumpkin patches and farm stands have them. Be sure to tell them that you intend to use it for a pumpkin pie. Again, look for firm, no soft spots, or signs of any rot.

Varieties of Pumpkins

Sugar - Excellent for baking
Jack O'Lantern - most common for carving
White Lumina - unusual, medium-sized white pumpkin
Mini - Great for December oration
Gourds - Many varieties, used for decorations

Other Local Farm Products (Honey, Horses, Milk, Meat, Eggs, Etc.)
(NOT pick-your-own, unless they are also listed above)

Don't forget about us for Pumpkin Patches and Corn mazes in October, cut-your-own Christmas trees in December and pick-your-own strawberries next Spring!