Wondering what to do with your leftover Halloween pumpkins and gourds? Here’s some options to avoid rotten jack-o-lanterns in your yard, courtesy of Pennsylvania Resources Council.
Whole, Undecorated Pumpkins
You can still eat these! They may have been sold as “carving” pumpkins, but they are perfectly edible (and great in soup or baked goods).
Carved Pumpkins
If you already compost, you can smash them up and add them to your bin — just be sure to take the seeds out so they don’t sprout. Or, you can leave them in the woods for wildlife.
- Learn how to compost in Pittsburgh by listening to this City Cast Pittsburgh episode or check out the PRC’s backyard workshop. The next online session is Nov. 28 at 6 p.m.
Pumpkin Guts
You don’t want these in your compost, but you can pick out the seeds and roast them for a savory snack.
Painted / Decorated Pumpkins
If you cut off the decorated parts, you can dispose of these like you would the carved ones. And if none of these options work, see if your local patch will take them back. Shenot Farm in Wexford is hosting smash events this Saturday and Sunday during market hours.
