How long do Halloween pumpkins keep before and after carving and what’s a white pumpkin?

WITH Halloween nearly upon us, you may soon be heading to the shops to buy a pumpkin for carving into a lantern. But how long do pumpkins made into a jack-o’-lantern last, and what’s a white pumpkin? How long do pumpkins last? If it’s kept in a cool area with plenty of circulating air, a […]

WITH Halloween nearly upon us, you may soon be heading to the shops to buy a pumpkin for carving into a lantern.

But how long do pumpkins made into a jack-o’-lantern last, and what’s a white pumpkin?

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How long do pumpkins last?

If it’s kept in a cool area with plenty of circulating air, a whole, fresh pumpkin lasts two to three months.

Once carved, pumpkins will generally last up for three to five days — or up to two weeks if you live in a colder climate or keep it in the fridge between uses.

After this time it will start to show signs of decay and will brown.

Some people opt to paint their pumpkins instead of carving them, to ensure their pumpkin lasts for the duration of the spooky time period.

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What is a white pumpkin?

While orange pumpkins are tradition, many people are shunning the bright variety for albino ones.

Not only do the white, orb-like pumpkins look distinctly more ominous at Halloween but they are also slightly easier to carve.

This is because their skin is not as thick as orange pumpkins.

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How can you make your carved pumpkin last longer?

1. Choose a pumpkin that has is a bright orange colour (if orange) and the skin has hardened
2. Ensure the pumpkin doesn’t have any holes or blemishes, which can lead to quicker rotting
3. Wash your pumpkin surface with mild chlorine to get rid of any bacteria
4. Store in a cool, dry and dark place so it doesn’t become moist
5. After carving, make sure your pumpkin has adequate air circulation
6. Rub vaseline or diluted lemon juice on exposed parts to stop them turning brown
7. Keep in the fridge when you aren’t in the house