We love Pumpkins. They say that Pumpkin Spice creamers and flavorings are most popular during this time of the year. Pumpkins smell like Fall.

Over 1 ½ billion pounds of pumpkins are produced in the US annually. Many of these nutrient rich beauties are carved for Halloween. So, what do you do with these Jack o Lanterns after the holiday?

Here are some suggestions. Process the pumpkins before they freeze.

HUMAN CONSUMPTION    Eat the pumpkins. The simplest method is to cut into chunks and bake on a tray spiced with salt and pepper. You can also process the pumpkin into a puree for soups and pies. Pumpkins are full of Vitamin A and a ton of other antioxidants and healthy nutrients. Store bought pumpkin treats are full of added sugar, but natural pumpkin use is very healthy and low in calories.

PET FOOD    Cut the pumpkin up into chunks and add to the dog’s dish. You can also shred or add puree to their food. Pumpkin is a natural dewormer and is full of nutrients that pets love. You can also use pumpkin for making dog cookies.

FARM FEED    Farm critters love pumpkins. Pigs, chickens, cows, horses, and most livestock enjoy this healthy and fresh treat.

SAVE THE SEEDS    Bake and season the pumpkin seeds for a healthy snack. You can also clean and dry the seeds to be used for next years garden. Many hunters use pumpkins in their feed lots or simply for wildlife to enjoy. Insects and pollinators are great for nature. Try planting a perimeter of pumpkins around the garden edge to invite pollinators into your garden. Yu will impressed with your improved yield.

START A DIET    Pumpkin is only 5o calories per cup. They curb your appetite while supplying great nutrients. Lots od fiber and healthy chemicals to nourish your body.

DONATE    Farmers and community composting operations welcome pumpkins. Landfills are already full of methane producing organics. Help create great soil for other farmers to use.

COMPOST and MULCH     use these materials in your own garden. Create a mulch bin or simply dig a trench in your garden. Chop the pumpkin into chunks and bury. Use the stringy seedy insides for bird food.

HEALTH BENEFITS    include improved eyesight, heart health, skin nutrition, and lower risk of some kinds of Cancer.

SNACK O LANTERNS    Many wild critters will enjoy pumpkin waste. Birds, groundhogs, foxes, and even deer enjoy this seasonal treat. Place well away from your home and off any trails. Bears love them too!

Zero Waste is always a good idea.

Montana Grant