Courtney Warren is a Texas-based interior designer whose work has been featured in Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, Good Housekeeping, Apartment Therapy, and Today.com. She is a frequent consultant on Fox 4 TV’s Good Day program in Dallas, was ranked in the top 3 percent of interior designers in the US by Houzz.com, and starred in the Dallas episode of TLC’sFour Houses. She delights in helping overwhelmed clients create beautiful spaces—and will never turn down a warm chocolate chip cookie or Diet Dr Pepper.

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What to know before buying pumpkins and mums (ways to make them last)

Fall, Uncategorized

September 8, 2023

Fall is just around the corner, and nothing quite captures the spirit of the season like pumpkins and mums. Whether you’re decorating your porch, hosting a fall-themed event, or simply embracing the cozy atmosphere, it’s important to know how to make these autumn staples last. In this article, we’ll share some valuable tips to help you keep your pumpkins and mums fresh and vibrant longer, ensuring a stunning display throughout the season.

1. Choosing the Right Pumpkins

When selecting pumpkins, keep these factors in mind:

a. Look for firm, unblemished pumpkins with deep, rich colors.
b. Inspect the stem, ensuring it’s intact and firmly attached.
c. Avoid pumpkins with soft spots, mold, or signs of decay.

2. Preserving Pumpkins

Extend the life of your pumpkins with these suggestions:

a. Clean the surface: Wipe the outer skin of the pumpkins with a mild bleach solution to remove dirt and potential pathogens.
b. Apply a protective sealant: Use a clear acrylic spray or petroleum jelly to create a barrier that helps retain moisture and slows down the drying process.
c. Store in a cool, dry place: Keep your pumpkins in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and moisture.

3. Selecting Healthy Mums

Mums, also known as chrysanthemums, are popular fall flowers. Consider the following when purchasing mums:

a. Choose plants with unopened buds: This ensures a longer blooming period.
b. Inspect the leaves and stems: Look for vibrant green leaves without any discoloration or signs of damage.
c. Avoid plants with wilting or drooping blooms.

4. Caring for Mums

Follow these steps to maintain the beauty of your mums:

a. Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plants at the base, avoiding wetting the foliage.
b. Provide adequate sunlight: Mums thrive in full sun or partial shade, so find a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
c. Pinch back spent blooms: Regularly remove faded flowers to encourage new bud formation and prolong blooming.

5. Complementary Display Ideas

Enhance the beauty of your pumpkins and mums by incorporating these ideas:

a. Grouping and layering: Arrange pumpkins of different sizes and colors in clusters, interspersed with mums for a visually appealing display.
b. Adding accents: Consider incorporating cornstalks, hay bales, or decorative gourds to create texture and interest.
c. Illumination: Place small LED lights or candles inside hollowed-out pumpkins for an enchanting glow during nighttime

With these tips in mind, you’re well-equipped to make your pumpkins and mums last longer, ensuring a vibrant and welcoming fall display. By selecting healthy specimens, providing proper care, and adding creative touches, you’ll be able to enjoy the beauty of the season to the fullest

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