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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NCField&FamilySummer2026
Flip through the pages of the Summer 2026 edition of North Carolina Field and Family magazine. In this issue, find vineyard adventures at U-pick muscadine grape farms, explore the oasis of Manteo, learn more about on-farm markets, enjoy peak berry season with summer berry recipes, read about riveting research on hemp fiber and so much more.

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