Oh My Gourd! Wondering what to do with leftover pumpkins? Here are a few ideas on how to make the most out of them.
Feed Feathered Friends
Birds and small mammals love to eat the seeds. Rinse the seeds and let dry. No need to cook or add any type of seasoning. Place in a bird feeder or shallow bowl and let the birds feast!
Don’t have a bird feeder? Have the kids build their own! Check out how you can make your own bird feeder using items from around the house.
Compost
Pumpkins are a great additions to your compost pile. Be sure to remove all of the seeds before placing it in the compost bin or you might have volunteer pumpkin vines taking over your compost pile next year.
If you don’t have a compost going at home, you can find take your pumpkin to a community compost that is accepting them. The City of Annapolis has partnered with Annapolis Compost to accept pumpkins for composting. The collections sites vary depending on the day so be sure to check their website for more information. They will also offer a chance to smash those pumpkins at their “smash station” for a small donation.
If you don’t have a compost going at home, you can always take your pumpkin to a community compost that is accepting them.
The City of Annapolis has partnered with Annapolis Compost to accept pumpkins for composting. The collection sites vary depending on the
Mask Up
Treat yourself to a different kind of Halloween mask and try a Pumpkin Facial. Pureeing the inside of the pumpkin, make a mask that best suits you. Check out some of these recipes from Hello Glow. Most recipes include ingredients you can find around the kitchen.
Treat the Squirrels
Let nature have a feast! Backyard animals will eat your leftover pumpkins. Be sure to only use pumpkins that were not bleached or had any other chemicals applied as that can be harmful to animals.
Cut pumpkins into smaller pieces and put them in your yard to attract wildlife that will enjoy pumpkin snack pieces.
Donate
Wild animals aren’t the only ones who love some pumpkin. Ask around and donate your leftover pumpkins to zoos, animal shelters, farms or community gardens.
Experiment
Want to let the kids in on the fun? Try out this awesome puking pumpkin experiment from our STEAM Fair! It’s a simple yet amazing way to learn about chemical reactions.
