Halloween is almost here, and if you’re like most busy moms, you’ve got pumpkin carving on the to-do list this week! But before you grab that knife and let the kids go wild, we’ve got a game-changing tip that’ll save you from dealing with a mushy, fly-covered mess on your front porch.

Stop Cutting Off the Stem!

Here’s the deal: That cute little stem on top of your pumpkin? Leave it alone.

We know, we know – for years, you’ve probably been slicing the top off like you’re making pumpkin pie. But here’s what nobody tells you: cutting off the stem is basically fast-tracking your jack-o’-lantern straight to Rotville.

Why the Stem is Your Pumpkin’s Secret Weapon

Think of the stem as your pumpkin’s built-in preservation system. That stem was attached to the vine that fed your pumpkin while it was growing, which means it’s packed with nutrients that help keep your pumpkin healthy and fresh. When you leave the stem on, it acts like a natural seal that slows down the rotting process.

Translation? Your pumpkin will actually last through Halloween instead of turning into a science experiment by October 30th.

So What Should You Do Instead?

Cut the bottom or back of your pumpkin instead!

Flip that pumpkin over and carve out the base, or cut a large opening in the back. You can still scoop out all the guts (hello, roasted pumpkin seeds!), add a candle or LED light, and create your spooky masterpiece. The difference? Your pumpkin will stay fresher, longer.

Plus, let’s be honest – nobody wants to deal with fruit flies swarming around their festive front porch display. This simple switch means less mess, less smell, and more time enjoying the Halloween season with your family instead of replacing rotting pumpkins.

The Bottom Line (Literally!)

This Halloween, give your jack-o’-lanterns their best chance at making it to trick-or-treat night: Don’t decapitate your pumpkin – cut its butt off instead!

Your future self (and your neighbors) will thank you when your porch isn’t attracting every fly in the neighborhood come November 1st.

Happy carving, and Happy Halloween from your friends at Froggy 102.7! 🎃

Source: The New York Times

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