It is estimated that of the 39.9 million pumpkins sold this Halloween 22.2 million will go to landfill. Not only does this contribute to greenhouse gas emissions but it also adds up to around £32 million worth of edible food, being thrown away (Hubub.org). Here are 5 ways you can do the planet a favour, and re-purpose your Halloween pumpkins this year.
Eat It!
If your pumpkin hasn’t yet been carved and is still looking fresh, the tastiest way to dispose of your Halloween pumpkin is the eat it! This time of year, you will find pumpkin based recipes for almost anything but some of our favourites are;
- Pumpkin Pie
- Pumpkin Spice Bread
- Spicy Pumpkin Hummus
- Soft Pumpkin Cookies
- Pumpkin Soup
- Pumpkin Butter
- Parmesan Pumpkin Wedges
Use the guts as a base for broth and save and roast the seeds for a quick snack. Alternatively, wash, dry and store your seeds for planting next Spring.
Create a Succulent Planter
Give your pumpkins a life longer than Halloween weekend and turn them into an Autumn-long decoration. These mini pumpkin succulent planters by our friends at Shell on Earth are the perfect, lowkey Autumn decoration that you can keep around the house for as long as they live! Watch their tutorial here.
Make a Bird Feeder
A great solution to an already carved pumpkin is to turn it into a bird feeder and welcome to wildlife into your garden. Cut the pumpkin in half so it resembles a bowl or carve around the face so there is a large enough opening for birds to enter. Add some string to your feeder so you’re able to hang it and fill with bird feed for the birds to enjoy!
Compost
Pumpkins make an excellent, garden fuelling addition to your compost pile. Pumpkins are high in nitrogen and a great source of green composting material. Add to your pile as is, alongside the right amount of brown compost material, or break into smaller pieces for faster decomposing.
Leave for the Wildlife
At this time of year lots of wildlife is out and about foraging for the winter. Cut your pumpkin into smaller pieces, or place outside as is, for squirrels and other wildlife to enjoy a festive Autumn feast.
