CUISINE & CULTURE
Pumpkins are autumn. Harvest pumpkins in the garden when mature, fully developed and uniform in color. The rind will be firm and resist denting when pressed with a thumbnail. The inside flesh of fully mature pumpkins will never show greening.
Harvest pumpkins by cutting from the vine with pruning shears or a sharp knife leaving a 3 to 4 inch stem after severing. Never pull pumpkins from the vines. Stems must remain on the pumpkin for proper curing because without a long stem the area of attachment to the vine becomes sunken and rots. A stem also provides a handle for the lid of a pumpkin if it is made into a jack-o-lantern.
Never carry pumpkins by their stems; stems cannot support the weight of the fruit and may break off. After harvest cradle pumpkins when you carry them. Handle carefully to avoid bruising; cuts and bruises provide entrance for fungus and bacteria, which can cause rotting.
Cure pumpkin properly to store for any length of time. Skins harden allowing surface cuts or scratches to heal. Place pumpkins without sides touching at 80 to 85° F and high relative humidity for about 10 days. Pumpkins will cure well in West Texas under a protected patio away from direct sun.
Once cured pumpkins can last for months if they are stored cool and dry. Never refrigerate or store near apples or pears. Place in a single layer not touching one another. Air circulation helps prevent moisture from forming on the surface of the fruit, preventing growth of decay fungi and bacteria. Properly cured and stored, pumpkins should last 2 to 3 months.
Floydada’s annual ‘Punkin Days’ is celebrated this Saturday, October 12, and visitors can pick their own pumpkins from their pumpkin patch. Floydada is the Pumpkin Capital of Texas, and their pumpkin patch seems to grow every year.
Visiting a pumpkin patch is a terrific family event. Children can wander among the pumpkins, some as large as them – great time for family photos.
Pick a perfect pumpkin by choosing pumpkins that have:
• Smooth, even skin, consistent coloring.
• No soft spots, wounds, or deep scratches.
• Firm bottoms, sturdy stems.
• A hollow sound when tapped means fully mature and easier to carve.
• Remember to carry by lifting from underneath. For information on events go to floydadachamber.com.
Ellen Peffley Harp, a retired professor of horticulture at Texas Tech University, writes about gardening for several Texas newspapers.
