CMU Tech Technical Instructor for Agriculture Science Shawnee Sagers shares what to do with pumpkins after Halloween
As Halloween decorations come down and jack-o'-lanterns begin to sag on front porches, many Grand Junction residents are left wondering what to do with their leftover pumpkins. Rather than sending them to a landfill, there are several environmentally friendly options that can benefit local gardens, livestock and composting efforts.
According to Colorado Mesa University Technical Instructor for Agriculture Science Shawnee Sagers, pumpkins are an excellent organic material that can be repurposed in a variety of ways after the spooky season.
One of the simplest and most sustainable options is composting. Pumpkins break down quickly and provide valuable nutrients that help create rich, healthy soil.
“Pumpkins can be great for composting! Microbial life living in compost loves fresh produce,” said Sagers.
For the best results, pumpkins should be broken into smaller pieces before composting. Chopping them up speeds decomposition and makes it easier for microorganisms to do their work. Gardeners should also be aware that pumpkin stems take significantly longer to break down and may be better left out of the compost pile.
Another important consideration is pumpkin seeds. To prevent volunteer pumpkin plants from sprouting the following spring, compost piles should maintain an internal temperature of approximately 130 degrees Fahrenheit for seven to 10 consecutive days. Adequate moisture and oxygen levels are essential for achieving those temperatures and supporting healthy decomposition to ensure unwanted plants do not sprout.
Residents interested in improving their garden soil can also use pumpkins as part of a backyard composting system. Creating a compost pile is easier than many people realize and can be done in something as simple as a large plastic storage container or a designated pile in the yard, Sagers shared.
Successful composting relies on maintaining a balance between "browns" and "greens." Browns, which provide carbon, include dried leaves, yard trimmings and other dry organic matter. Greens, which provide nitrogen, include chopped pumpkins, fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds and eggshells.
“Stir and water this mix. By the next planting season, you'll have an awesome additive for your gardens and yards,” said Sagers.
For residents who raise livestock, pumpkins can also serve as a seasonal food source. Chickens, goats, sheep, pigs and cattle commonly enjoy pumpkins. Whole pumpkins should be split into pieces before feeding to animals with the stem removed, as livestock may ignore intact pumpkins until they begin to soften and rot.
“Chickens especially like to have their pumpkins opened for them.”
If starting a composting system at home isn't possible, Mesa County residents can take advantage of the Mesa County Organic Materials Compost Facility. Gather up leaves that have fallen off trees and bushes and bring your pumpkins to the facility to maximize your trip.
Whether feeding livestock or enriching garden soil in preparation for spring, residents have plenty of opportunities to give their Halloween decorations a second life while supporting a healthier environment.
If you are interested in learning more about composting, the CMU Tech Community Education Center offers an Advanced Composting course on November 21 from 9-11 am.
Learn more about the CMU Tech Agriculture Science Program.