Do pumpkins need special treatment after harvesting?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.The Post-harvest treatment will affect how long your pumpkins are usable for. Proper handling will maximize the taste and prevent your crop from rotting. These steps need to be implemented as soon as you cut the stem of a pumpkin; therefore, they are included in this guide for every grower to follow.
Curing Process
- Maintain 80-85°F (27-29°C) for 10-14 days
- Promotes rind hardening and wound healing
- Converts starches to sugars enhancing flavor
Storage Preparation
- Clean only with dry brushes to avoid moisture
- Inspect for bruises or soft spots weekly
- Handle exclusively from the base not stems
Curing: Pumpkinse are cured at 80-85°F. Curing of 10-14 days duration hardens rinds by evaporating moisture from them. Curing will also seal stem wounds and should never be neglected, as it materially prolongs storage life. Pumpkins should be placed for this purpose in some well ventilated position.
Clean pumpkins using only dry brushes; water invites mold to grow on them in storage. Remove dirt and scratches; check every week or whenever they are stored for soft spots or discolorations. Rotate so that every part gets exposure to air. Pumpkins that show decay should be thrown out.
Keep all pumpkins at temperatures between 50°F and 55°F (10-13°C) and humidity levels between 60% and 70%. Pumpkins stored at warmer temperatures will decay more quickly, while those stored at colder temperatures may result in chilling injuries. Use a hygrometer to measure the moisture content. Provide very slight air circulation to prevent the buildup of ethylene gas from the pumpkins.
Always hold pumpkins by the bottom. The stems will break and become brittle if they are picked up from above. Use two hands to support the entire weight of a pumpkin. Do not store pumpkins on top of one another; store them in a single layer only on a breathable surface, such as Wooden Slats.
Storage Options are Different Regionally. In a humid climate, dehumidifiers are needed in storage. A dry environment requires the use of water trays. Ensure the method you choose is appropriate for your region and climate. Northern cellars tend to work well for storing products. Southern growers typically require climate-controlled environments to store their products properly.
Read the full article: When to Harvest Pumpkins: Ultimate Guide
