Pumpkin Shopping? 5 Tricks For Perfect Picks This Season

Ready to grab the best pumpkin ever?

Whether you're going for spooky carvings or a picture-perfect porch pumpkin, it’s time to up your game. Picking the right pumpkin is more than just a stroll through the patch — it’s an art, according to thekitchn.com.

First things first — avoid squishy disasters. Give that pumpkin a squeeze. Press your thumbs on it and check for soft spots and mold. Don’t skip the bottom. A pumpkin that gives in too easily won’t last long. You don’t want a collapsing jack-o’-lantern, right?

Look for that strong, intact stem — the pumpkin’s crown jewel. A green stem means it was freshly picked, while a brown one might be past its prime. No stem? Skip it. Pumpkins without stems tend to rot faster.

Yep, knock on that pumpkin like it’s a door. You’re listening for a nice, hollow sound. Why? A hollow pumpkin is easier to carve. Bonus points if it feels solid when you pick it up — that means it’s sturdy and ready to roll (or carve).

Looking for carving perfection? Go for a pumpkin with flat walls and minimal ribs. The flatter the surface, the easier it is to create those sharp, spooky designs. Tall, stringy pumpkins? Leave those for the pros — they’re trickier to work with.

Before you commit, place the pumpkin on a flat surface. Does it sit upright? Or does it lean like a sleepy scarecrow? A lopsided pumpkin is fun if you want a wonky look, but for a classic jack-o’-lantern, flat is fab.

So, there you have it! With these quick tips, you'll be the pumpkin-picking hero of the season. Now get out there and find your gourd-geous pick!