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Step 1
Wait until about a week to 10 days before Halloween to carve the pumpkin. Depending on the heat and humidity, the lifespan of a jack-o-lantern can be relatively short. As soon as they are carved, they begin to dry out and decompose.
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Step 2
Resist the temptation of carving an intricate design. Simple is better because if the cuts are close together, the pumpkin is less stable and breaks down faster.
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Step 3
Rub petroleum jelly on all the cut edges and inside of the jack-o-lantern. This seals in the natural moisture and slows the drying out process.
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Step 4
Move the pumpkin to a shaded area during the day if possible. The sun can dry it out quickly. If you have the luxury of a spare refrigerator, store it there overnight. This really helps make the jack-o-lantern last longer.
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Step 5
Mist the inside of the pumpkin with water once a day to hydrate.
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Step 6
Make sure to leave a vent hole in the top of the pumpkin if using a candle. This allows the heat to escape and prevents damaging the inside which speeds up deterioration.
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Step 7
Take care of your carved masterpiece by using these techniques and make it stay fresh until the last trick-or-treater leaves your doorstep.
