Compost Pumpkins and Jack-o-Lanterns With These Tips
Can you compost pumpkins? Yes, pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns can be added to the compost pile, but you will want to follow these tips for the best success. No compost pile? This post includes tips for garden uses for your leftover pumpkin, too.
First and foremost, if you’ve turned your pumpkin into a jack-o-lantern, be sure to remove candle wax and any non-natural decorations from it.
If you did not carve your pumpkin, scrape out the seeds. Pumpkin seeds that make their way to a compost pile may sprout and really prosper on the richness and warmth of the pile.
Next, break the pumpkin or jack-o-lantern into pieces. Toss the pieces onto the compost pile. Breaking it up helps the pumpkin break down faster.
You can also compost pumpkins in place. That is, if you don’t have a compost pile, you can simply chop up the pumpkin and bury the pieces in any part of your garden, where they will break down and enrich the soil.