When the leaves have fallen and the Halloween decorations are coming down, you’re probably wondering what to do with those old pumpkins sitting on your porch.
Instead of tossing them in the trash, there are several easy and eco-friendly ways to give your pumpkins a second life. Here are a few ideas any DIY homeowner can try.
1. Compost Them
Pumpkins break down quickly and are rich in nutrients that your compost pile will love.
- Remove any candles, wax, stickers, or paint (unless it’s non-toxic paint).
- Chop the pumpkin into smaller pieces for faster decomposition.
- Mix it into your compost pile with leaves and other yard waste.
(If you don’t have a compost pile yet, this is a great excuse to start one! It’s a simple way to cut down on waste and feed your garden.)
2. Use Them as Garden Fertilizer
You can also bury pumpkin pieces directly into your garden beds. They’ll naturally break down and enrich the soil.
- Cut the pumpkin into chunks.
- Dig shallow holes in your garden and bury the pieces.
- Cover them with soil to keep critters away.
By spring, the pumpkin will be gone and your soil will be richer.
3. Feed the Wildlife
Many animals enjoy pumpkins as a snack. Squirrels, deer, and birds will gladly help clean up your leftovers.
- Break your pumpkin into chunks and leave them near trees or wooded areas.
- Avoid using pumpkins that have been painted or treated with chemicals.
- For a natural bird feeder, cut the pumpkin in half, scoop out the seeds, add some birdseed, and hang with twine.
4. Save the Seeds!
Pumpkin seeds can be used in two great ways:
- Roast them for a healthy snack. Clean, season, and bake at 300°F for about 30 minutes.
- Dry and save them to plant next spring if your pumpkins were from a non-hybrid variety.
5. Donate or Drop Them Off for Composting
Many local farms, garden centers, and community composting programs collect pumpkins after Halloween. Farmers often feed them to livestock or compost them on-site.
When pumpkins end up in landfills, they release methane as they decompose, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. By reusing, composting, or donating them, you’re reducing waste and helping the environment.
Your pumpkins don’t have to end up in the garbage. Whether you turn them into garden fertilizer, feed local wildlife, or craft a creative planter, you can keep your fall decorations from going to waste and even give back to your yard in the process.
