Before you haul everything to the curb, here are five ways to put those pumpkins to good use:
- Add Them To The Compost Pile
Your old jack-o’-lantern can actually do your garden some good! Remove any candles, wax and decorations, break the pumpkin into smaller pieces and toss it into your compost pile. Mix it with some dry leaves, and let nature do its thing. Just be prepared…if you leave the seeds in, you might end up with a few surprise pumpkin plants!
- Find A Local Pumpkin Smash
Some communities host post-Halloween pumpkin smash events where you can bring your old pumpkins for a little smashing fun. It’s a great way to keep pumpkins out of the landfill and put them to good use. No event nearby? You could always organize your own backyard pumpkin smash!
- Turn Your Pumpkin Into A Flower Vase
Want a creative fall centerpiece? If your carved pumpkin is still relatively firm and fresh, remove the candle and any leftover wax, then tuck a small glass jar or vase inside. Add water and your favorite flowers for an easy, festive arrangement. Just don’t expect it to last forever. Pumpkins have a limited shelf life once they’re carved!
- Keep The Uncarved Ones For Thanksgiving
Not ready to say goodbye to fall decorations just yet? Good news! Those uncarved pumpkins can stick around for a while. Pack away the Halloween skeletons, ghosts and spiders, but keep your whole pumpkins on display. As long as they’re kept somewhere dry and haven’t started to rot, they can make great Thanksgiving decorations.
- Donate Them To A Farm Or Animal Sanctuary
Some local farms, animal sanctuaries and zoos accept fresh pumpkins for their animals to eat or enjoy as enrichment. It’s a great way to give your pumpkins another purpose while helping out some furry friends. Just make sure they’re clean, fresh and free of paint, glitter, candles or other decorations. And always call ahead to make sure the facility is accepting donations.
Source: The Pioneer Woman
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