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MANHATTAN —
Pumpkins and other fall items make autumn one of the most fun seasons for decorating. The centerpiece of autumn décor is the popular pumpkin, says Dennis Patton county horticulture agent in Johnson County.
Picking the right pumpkin in many ways is a personal preference as beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Round, squatty, oblong, with or without scratches—they all have their own character.
Patton suggests, when choosing a pumpkin, look closely at the flesh of the orb. Avoid any pumpkins that have cracks or splits. Gently squeeze or press your fingers into the fruit. Pay close attention to the blossom end, or bottom, and around the stem. A fresh pumpkin should be solid to the touch. Avoid with soft spots or sunken areas as decay has already set in.
Holding or carrying a pumpkin should be done with care. Avoid carrying the pumpkin by the stem. The stem is not a built-in handle. Once the stem breaks off, pumpkin decay is not far behind. The stem’s connection to the pumpkin is not strong enough to support the weight of the fruit. Carry the pumpkin from the bottom.
Pumpkins store best under cooler conditions. Inside or outside, they will keep for several months. Hard freezes will damage outdoor pumpkins causing them to turn to mush.
Picking pumpkins is a great family activity and a fun way to celebrate the season. The following Pumpkin Pudding recipe can also be enjoyed by the whole family. Ingredients for Pumpkin Pudding: 1 can (15-ounce) pumpkin; 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; 1 1/2 cups low fat milk; 1 package (3.5-ounce) instant vanilla pudding Directions: Remember to wash your hands! 1. In a large mixing bowl, mix pumpkin and pumpkin spice together with a wooden spoon. 2. Slowly stir in milk and mix well. 3. Add instant pudding mix and stir slowly for about one minute until it thickens. 4. Refrigerate until serving time.
Pumpkins and other fall items make autumn one of the most fun seasons for decorating. The centerpiece of autumn décor is the popular pumpkin, says Dennis Patton county horticulture agent in Johnson County.
Picking the right pumpkin in many ways is a personal preference as beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Round, squatty, oblong, with or without scratches—they all have their own character.
Patton suggests, when choosing a pumpkin, look closely at the flesh of the orb. Avoid any pumpkins that have cracks or splits. Gently squeeze or press your fingers into the fruit. Pay close attention to the blossom end, or bottom, and around the stem. A fresh pumpkin should be solid to the touch. Avoid with soft spots or sunken areas as decay has already set in.
Holding or carrying a pumpkin should be done with care. Avoid carrying the pumpkin by the stem. The stem is not a built-in handle. Once the stem breaks off, pumpkin decay is not far behind. The stem’s connection to the pumpkin is not strong enough to support the weight of the fruit. Carry the pumpkin from the bottom.
Pumpkins store best under cooler conditions. Inside or outside, they will keep for several months. Hard freezes will damage outdoor pumpkins causing them to turn to mush.
Picking pumpkins is a great family activity and a fun way to celebrate the season. The following Pumpkin Pudding recipe can also be enjoyed by the whole family. Ingredients for Pumpkin Pudding: 1 can (15-ounce) pumpkin; 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; 1 1/2 cups low fat milk; 1 package (3.5-ounce) instant vanilla pudding Directions: Remember to wash your hands! 1. In a large mixing bowl, mix pumpkin and pumpkin spice together with a wooden spoon. 2. Slowly stir in milk and mix well. 3. Add instant pudding mix and stir slowly for about one minute until it thickens. 4. Refrigerate until serving time.
