How to Preserve a Jack-O'-Lantern (for longer)

When you have Halloween pumpkin carving skills worth bragging about, you want to keep your pumpkin carvings fresh and firm for as long as possible. There are several preservatives on the market that keep jack-o'-lanterns from rotting too quickly, but you can also make pumpkin preservative from common household items. Provided that you keep your pumpkin outside in a cold, dry climate, this preservation method will prevent mold growth and wilting for 10 to 14 days.

First, mix a solution of either bleach and water, borax and water, or houseplant anti-fungal solution and water. A solution that is diluted 50/50 is more than sufficient. If you don't have any anti-fungal products for plants, you can dissolve athlete's foot powder in some water. Put the solution in a spray bottle and store it in a cool, dry place.

Next, rub petroleum jelly on the outside of the jack-o'-lantern. This keeps too much moisture from evaporating, which helps your jack-o'-lantern stay firm. If you light your pumpkin at night, don't rub petroleum jelly inside the pumpkin, since petroleum products are flammable. (Don't worry about your jack-o'-lantern going up in a blaze, Vaseline on a pumpkin isn't that flammable.)

Use the spray solution to spritz the inside of the carved pumpkin everyday. Give it a thorough spray in the morning and one more at night. The solution will keep the inside looking and smelling fresher for much longer than an untreated pumpkin.

Keep in mind your pumpkin will inevitably rot, but this preservation method will keep it fresh for at least a week so that your visitors can admire it. Make sure the pumpkin does not freeze over night; frost accelerates decomposition.