Innovative tools and techniques have added a modern twist to Halloween’s pumpkin-carving tradition. Standard kitchen spoons used to scoop out seeds and pulp have been augmented by drills and carving knives created specially for making jazzy jack-o’-lanterns. The National Retail Federation estimates that Halloween revelers will spend nearly $6 billion this year on candy, decorations, costumes and the like. Such fancy carving kits as these are sure to be part of that holiday bounty. Sheba R. Wheeler
Gourd guardian
Oh, the disappointment of poking and prodding at a carefully picked pumpkin to craft the perfect jack-o’-lantern, only to have that carved creation shrivel up and rot in a matter of days. Carved pumpkins decay faster than uncarved pumpkins because fungus, bacteria, insects and squirrels have easier access to the pungent pulp. Pair these pumpkin predators with the natural oxidation process, and even faster dehydration thanks to Colorado’s dry climate, and Halloween-ers may only get to enjoy their jack-o’-lanterns for a day or two. If you’re looking to extend the life of your jack-o’-lantern, try one of these solutions.
Soak a shriveled up jack-o’-lantern in water overnight, then dry the inside with a towel to prevent mold.
Cover all of the jack-o’lantern’s cut surfaces — both inside and out — with petroleum jelly to lock in the moisture.
Look for “Pumpkin Fresh!” or a similar preservative at your grocery store, garden center or party supply store. Or order it online at .
Spray the cut parts of the pumpkin with a bleach solution to prevent bacteria and mold. About 1 tablespoon of bleach per quart of water should be sufficient. Elana Ashanti Jefferson
