Pumpkins, Pumpkins Everywhere!
Fall weather is settling in. Pumpkins are appearing in store displays, on front porches, at local farm stands, and even at fall weddings. Fall is the pumpkin season. This orange fruit is harvested in October and features flowers, seeds, and flesh that are edible and nutritious. Did you know that pumpkins have been grown in North America for over 5,000 years?
You can harvest the seeds from your pumpkins to plant in the spring so you will be able to display, carve, and bake your very own home grown pumpkins next year! Here is how you can do this:
-When you carve or cut open a pumpkin: separate the seeds from the insides of the pumpkin.
-Place the seeds in a colander and rinse them well with cold water.
-Line a large flat cookie sheet with newspaper and spread the seeds in a single layer on it.
-Leave it in a warm, dry spot allowing the seeds to dry completely. This should take about a week.
-Store the dry seeds in a covered jar or sealed bag in a dark, cool spot.
-You can plant the seeds when the weather and the soil is warmer. The seeds are viable for up to 6 months.
-You may also want to try roasting a few of the dried seeds for a delicious snack!
Love pumpkins as much as we do? Check out two of our favorite pumpkin-themed flags: