Halloween is a googly fun time for ghouls, goblins, and, of course, bright orange pumpkins! With costumes and candy coming to a close, you might be wondering what to do with your once-spooky jack-o’-lanterns now that the Halloween celebrations are over. Fear not! We’re here for you as we explore super fun, creative, and sustainable ways to make the most of your Halloween pumpkin (and maybe your neighbors’ too!). But first, let’s delve into some statistics about this super awesome fruit!
Pumpkin Purchases by the Numbers:
- A Pumpkin-Packed Industry: Did you know that the pumpkin industry in the United States is worth over $600 million annually? That’s right; pumpkins are big business during the Halloween season.
- Pumpkin Popularity: Approximately 72% of American households participate in Halloween activities, and carving pumpkins is a significant part of this tradition.
- Pumpkin Patch Visits: Every year, millions of families visit pumpkin patches to pick their perfect pumpkins. In fact, there are around 16,000 pumpkin patches in the United States!
Now, let’s dive into the fun part: what to do with your Halloween pumpkin once the spooky season has ended.
- Pumpkin Recycling:
Instead of sending your pumpkin to the landfill, consider recycling it. Many cities have composting programs that accept your once-loved pumpkins. Check with your local waste management or composting facility to see if they offer pumpkin recycling options. This eco-friendly choice keeps organic material out of landfills and enriches the soil.
- Create Pumpkin Puree:
Yummmm! Your Halloween pumpkin can be transformed into a delicious treat. Roast the pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and blend it into a smooth puree. Use it to make pumpkin pies, soups, or even pumpkin-flavored pancakes. It’s a sustainable way to enjoy seasonal flavors.
- Feed the Wildlife:
If you have a garden or yard, consider placing your carved pumpkin outside. Birds, squirrels, and other wildlife will appreciate the tasty treat. Pumpkins provide essential nutrients and hydration for animals during the fall months.
- Pumpkin Face Mask:
Did you know that pumpkins aren’t just for pies? They are also great for your skin too! Create a DIY pumpkin face mask using pureed pumpkin, honey, and yogurt. Pumpkin is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making it an excellent natural skincare ingredient.
- Pumpkin Seed Snacks:
Don’t toss those pumpkin seeds! Clean and roast them for a delicious and nutritious snack. Pumpkin seeds are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
I have loved having weekly chats with pupils about our compost pumpkin over the last few weeks. The children have been excited to see the weekly changes! Next step will be to pick it I think! 🤞🏻@spr_meadow_pri pic.twitter.com/k4ga20xKdm
— Rebecca Tilley (@_MrsTilley) October 3, 2023
- Composting:
If recycling isn’t an option, composting your pumpkin is a fantastic alternative. Pumpkin flesh and seeds break down naturally, enriching your compost pile with valuable nutrients. In fact, my Mom, aka grandma, just dropped it in the corner of her yard, and over time, it turned into compost and eventually even produced a huge pumpkin plant with baby pumpkins the next year!
- Donate to Farms:
Many local farms and animal sanctuaries gladly accept donated pumpkins to feed their animals. Contact nearby farms to see if they are in need of pumpkin donations.
- Pumpkin Potpourri:
Dried pumpkin slices can be used to make fragrant potpourri. Add spices like cinnamon, vanilla beans, and cloves for a delightful autumn scent.
- Halloween Pumpkin Tradition:
Keep the holiday joy going! Consider making it a tradition to keep your pumpkin as a decoration until Thanksgiving. Pumpkins last a surprisingly long time. It’s a fun way to extend the Halloween spirit and create a festive atmosphere for the Thanksgiving holiday.
- DIY Pumpkin Planters:
Turn your Halloween pumpkin into a unique planter. Hollow it out, fill it with soil, and plant fall flowers or herbs for a charming autumn display. Your pumpkin pot may not last forever, but as time goes by, consider digging a hole in the ground and planting it all – pumpkin, plant, and all!
As Halloween fades into sweet memories, your pumpkin can continue to bring joy and sustainability into your life. By recycling, repurposing, and getting creative, you can make the most of your jack-o’-lantern and reduce waste. Whether you’re enjoying delicious pumpkin treats or enriching your garden, these ideas ensure that your Halloween pumpkin has a lasting impact even after the holiday is over. Happy Halloween and happy pumpkin recycling!
