As sure as pumpkin spice lattes mark the arrival of autumn, porch pumpkins are here to add a touch of seasonal charm to your doorstep. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the art of choosing, caring for and sourcing these delightful fall decorations locally, right here in Happy Valley.
Selecting Your Perfect Porch Pumpkin
Size and Space: Begin by assessing the space on your porch or entryway. It’s easy to get carried away, so make sure your chosen pumpkin fits comfortably without obstructing foot traffic or creating tripping hazards. If you’re tight on space, try stacking your pumpkins for height versus spread.
Color and Shape: Diverging from their jack-o’-lantern relatives, porch pumpkins are usually non-traditional and come in an enticing array of colors and shapes, each with its unique charm to match any aesthetic from pretty pastels to moody blacks. This year, our top picks are:
—Porcelain Dolls: These beauties boast a soft pink blush that adds a delicate touch to your porch. They’re perfect for a subtle and elegant fall statement.
—Blancos: With their pristine white skin, Blancos exude an air of sophistication, making them an ideal choice for a classic and timeless look.
—Blue Dolls: These unique sage-hued pumpkins offer a captivating twist on traditional fall decor. Pair with Blancos for the ultimate Penn State porch.
—Midnights: These dark and mysterious pumpkins are as deep as the night sky, providing a stark contrast that can make your porch pop with drama.
—Long Island Cheddar: For a rustic farmhouse feel, the beige Long Island Cheddars are an excellent choice for both stacking and baking.
Condition Check: Before purchasing, give your potential porch pumpkin a thorough once-over. Look for soft spots, mold or any other blemishes that might create avenues for bacteria to get into the pumpkin, affecting its longevity and appeal.
Caring for Your Porch Pumpkin
Once you’ve found the perfect pumpkin, it’s time to ensure that it stays in pristine condition throughout the season. Here’s how:
A Bleach Bath: To ward off mold and bacteria, give your pumpkin a gentle cleaning with a 10% bleach solution (one part bleach, nine parts water). A quick wipe-down with a cloth or sponge should suffice.
Airing It Out: Porch pumpkins appreciate fresh air. Position yours in a well-ventilated spot to help keep it dry and pristine. If stacking your pumpkins, check on them every few days. Rot can spread quickly when pumpkins are in direct contact with one another.
Protect From Frost: Homeowners should bring pumpkins inside when temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing. Once pumpkins freeze, they’ll turn to mush when they thaw.
Get Your Porch Pumpkins Locally
Remember, you don’t need to look far for these unique porch pumpkins. Rooted Farmstead is your local destination for all things fall. We intentionally curate a collection of unique, locally grown pumpkins so you’re not only supporting local farmers but also ensuring that your fall decor is as special as the season itself.
So, as autumn approaches, keep these tips in mind when selecting and caring for your porch pumpkin. And don’t forget to visit Rooted Farmstead to pick up your porch pumpkins, locally grown mums and pick-your-own flowers while the season lasts. Mark your calendar for our Fall Market on Sept. 30, featuring local vendors, food and music, and make this fall season a cozy and colorful one right here in our community.
Christie Holloway is the owner of Rooted Farmstead, a flower farm and agritourism destination located in Bellefonte.
