Fresh and firm pumpkins have the best longevity. While you can get them at grocery stores, local patches or farmers markets, picking the right one is rather like an artform. Here are some tips to ensure that you have a great pumpkin to carve that will last throughout the month.

1) Look at pumpkins that are firm and very fresh; bruised and cut pumpkins are no good. The size of the pumpkin is important too, since you’ll want enough space to carve your design.

2) Time to carve now? Aim the knife toward the stem as you cut. That way the lid won’t fall through the hole.

3) If you plan on using stencils for pumpkin design, tape the stencil to the pumpkin. Piercing tools can trace the design and leave slight perforations. This will enable smoother pumpkin carving.

4) Keeping the pumpkin hydrated is key. Wrapping it in plastic and refrigerating it nightly will slow the aging process.

5) Sprinkle nutmeg or cinnamon underneath the pumpkins when they’re lit. You’ll get a nice scent.

6) And lastly, to seal in moisture, petroleum jelly on the sliced edges and on the inside of the pumpkin will go a long way.

Have a great and safe pumpkin carving experience!

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