If you haven’t already picked out a couple of pumpkins either for your yard or for a delicious pumpkin pie, now would be a good time to do it because the season is coming to a close. But what if you’re not sure what type of pumpkin to pick? Here's what you need to know to make the right choice.

  • If You’re Looking for a Pumpkin to Display Outside

    The first thing you want to do is check the pumpkin for any bruises, cuts or soft spots. If it's got any of those blemishes, your pumpkin will rot super fast and you’ll be sad because you spent a whole bunch of time carving it only to have it cave in or get all icky and smelly.  Make sure the stem is attached and get creative with any interesting features on the pumpkin. Maybe it’s a little knobby in one place or flat in another. You can have a lot of fun decorating your pumpkin around its abnormalities.

  • If You’re Looking for a Pumpkin to Eat

    Inspect your pumpkin for any bruises, cuts or soft spots because nobody wants to eat a rotting pumpkin.

    Also, be on the lookout for a pumpkin that’s smaller- around 8” to 10” in diameter. You can absolutely use a pumpkin that's bigger but it won't taste as good. The smaller pumpkin’s meat will be less stringy and goopy. You can almost always find smaller pumpkins at the grocery store, but if you’re hitting up a pumpkin stand, be sure to tell them you want a pumpkin to cook so that they can help you pick out the perfect one.

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