Halloween is over: What do we do with all the pumpkins?

Halloween is over
What do we do with all the pumpkins?

What to do with the pumpkins after Halloween?

Are you wondering what to do with the pumpkins? You are not alone.

The goal should be to have them avoid the landfill. Besides becoming an unnecessary waste, as the pumpkins decompose, they release methane, one of the most dangerous gases that contribute to climate change.

It’s not just about then pumpkins decomposing in landfills. Take into consideration that it takes lots of water and energy for pumpkins to grow. So, you are not just throwing away the product, the whole production has just gone to waste.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 1.3 billion pounds of pumpkin in the U.S. end up in landfills.

Here are some ideas to dispose of your pumpkin correctly. Keep in mind it is very important to take all decorations off.

If your pumpkins still have seeds, take them out and leave them for birds and squirrels to feed.

Pumpkins(without decorations) should be put in a compost bin.

If you don’t have a compost spot in your home, a nearby farm or zoo could be happy to take them to feed animals. Deer and pigs love pumpkins!

You can also choose to bury them in your garden. Dig a hole and place the broken pieces of pumpkins inside. Cover the holes with soil. The pumpkins will eventually break down and you are fertilizing your grass.

Irene Sans

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