Here are a few tips for picking the best pumpkins:

Color
If you are looking for a traditional orange pumpkin, look for dark orange color. Or choose from heirlooms, there are all kinds of shapes and colors.

Firm
To check for firmness, gently poke the pumpkin with your fingernail it should slightly dent or spring back right away.

Ripe
Knock on the pumpkin, and if you hear an echo or a hollow sound that is a good sign that it is ripe. Brown spots and green patches usually mean the pumpkin is over ripe or under ripe.

Check
Be sure to check the pumpkin for holes, deep cuts, bruises, or those dreaded soft spots which are the beginning signs of rot.

Stem
Look for a pumpkin with a hard, dry, well attached stem. Some say dark green stems will last a bit longer than brown stems. Just make sure the stem isn’t dried out or spongy. Also, try not to break off the stem from the vine (cut instead), this causing the pumpkin to lose more water.

Handling
Handle pumpkins gently to avoid bruising. Always pick up and carry the pumpkin from the bottom. Lifting by the stem may cause it to break off and led to faster decay of the pumpkin. Besides what’s a pumpkin without its stem.

Bonus Tip: Remember to make sure the base of your pumpkin is flat, this is best for cutting, carving, decorating, or displaying.

A great way to spend a fall morning or afternoon.