KAUKAUNA, Wis. — There are many factors to consider when picking out a pumpkin for Halloween, according to some landscape professionals.
Travis Schroeder is a landscape designer for Schmalz Custom Landscaping. He has worked in this profession since 1997.
Schroeder said there is no right answer when picking a pumpkin, but there are some things to watch out for.
“Looking for ones that don’t have blemishes, that’s a big factor in it,” said Schroeder. “Also, trying not to drop your pumpkins even if it doesn’t shatter or crack or anything like that, but that does bruise your pumpkins, which is going to shorten the life or the length of time that they work for.”
Schroeder said pumpkins can last anywhere from two to four weeks. He said they can last longer with colder temperatures.
He said healthier pumpkins have a dark, sturdy stem and have a glossy finish.
Schroeder said if you knock on the pumpkins and hear a hollow sound, those are best for carving. A thudding sound means they are best for cooking.
“Size does matter because think about if you’re going to be doing a carving, if you can do a good face on this one and you have enough room to do your carving on there,” said Schroeder. “You want to take that into consideration when you’re picking out your pumpkins.”
Some are forgoing the carving altogether and instead are painting pumpkins. It’s a new trend that’s emerging.
Senior landscape architect Jeff Morris said carving pumpkins can be hazardous with the potential of cutting or burning yourself. He offered a helpful tip for making it safer.
“If you want to light the pumpkin, if you’re doing a jack-o’-lantern is to cut the bottom of the pumpkin,” said Morris. “You lift it up, put your candle or your light source on the bottom and then put it back down.”
Schroeder said he enjoys fall because of the weather, football and other fun activities. He said his goal is to make people happy.
“Give them a wide selection of sizes, shapes, give them the opportunity to get the pumpkin that they’re going to enjoy for their situation,” said Schroeder. “Give them a little bit more eclectic choices for their pumpkins.”