Nothing says fall more than multi-color pumpkins lining the edges of porches and harvest decorations. Pumpkins are a staple of fall decor, celebrations, carving and jack o lanterns. But how do you keep pumpkins looking their best from early fall until it’s time to chuck them? Here are some of our best tips to keeping perfect pumpkins throughout the fall season.

pumpkins
Photo credit: iStock/AlexRaths

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pumpkins
Photo credit: Journal Communications

Visit your local pumpkin patch early in the fall

Make visiting your local pumpkin patch a priority for early fall rather than waiting. Being first on the farm ensures you have plenty of variety to pick a fresh pumpkin.

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Read & Connect

North Caroline Field and Family Fall 2026
Flip through the pages of the Fall 2026 edition of North Carolina Field and Family magazine. In this issue, swing for the Sandhills with a fall visit to Moore County, discover interesting uses for agricultural products beyond food and clothing, meet FFA alumna Katie Bryan and her restored tractor, celebrate N.C. Farm Bureau’s 90th Anniversary, try out some delicious autumn apple recipes and more.

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