Choose the Perfect Pumpkin - Tips for Halloween Decor

By Blake Jackson

For many Americans, Halloween isn’t complete without a jack-o’-lantern. This year, shoppers are expected to spend over $867 million on Halloween pumpkins, according to University of Missouri Extension horticulturist David Trinklein. The tradition can be traced back to Irish immigrants and a legendary figure named “Stingy Jack.”

“According to Irish legend, Stingy Jack was an old curmudgeon who succeeded in tricking the Devil on several occasions during his acrimonious life,” says Trinklein. After his death, Jack was denied entry to Heaven due to his unsavory ways and sent to Hell.

The Devil, having been tricked by Jack previously, refused him entry and instead sent him into the night with only a glowing ember. Jack placed it inside a hollowed-out turnip, and according to legend, he and his lantern have roamed the Earth ever since.

The jack-o’-lantern also connects to the Celtic festival of Samhain, celebrated on October 31, which later became All Hallows’ Eve or Halloween. Both traditions involved the belief that spirits roamed the Earth at this time.

European immigrants brought the practice to America, but pumpkins, being easier to carve than turnips, quickly became the preferred choice. While pumpkins are widely consumed around the world, in the U.S., they are mostly used as decorations.

“This fall, millions of Americans will make an annual pilgrimage to a ‘pumpkin patch’ or retail outlet to purchase a vegetable they are likely to look at but, unfortunately, not eat,” said Trinklein.

Pumpkins are rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A) and dietary fiber, and pumpkin pie spices have their own health benefits. “Not many people could tolerate taking allspice directly to benefit from its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and stomach-calming properties. However, consumed in a piece of pumpkin pie, it tastes rather delightful,” Trinklein said.

Modern pumpkin varieties are bred more for ornamental appeal than table quality, featuring earlier deep-orange maturation, large green stems, or even warty rinds for a spookier look. White pumpkins are also popular for painted designs.

To select a pumpkin, check for blemishes and use the “thumbnail test” to ensure full maturity. Store pumpkins in a cool, dry, shaded spot at 50-55°F with 50-70% humidity to keep them fresh.

Photo Credit:pexels-matreding