It’s becoming a popular tradition in most households - the family going out for the day to a local farm to select pumpkins for the spooky season. As fun as this is, it’s important to be aware of what you may also be bringing back home with you!
Insects like flies and spiders may hitch a ride back home with you inside your pumpkin, so be sure to thoroughly inspect your pumpkin before putting it in your car - damage on the pumpkin can be a sign that something is hiding inside. If you’ve already brought your pumpkin home, give it a gentle shake and that should encourage any hitchhikers to come out of hiding.
Once home, a pumpkin can also attract pests especially if left outside. Rodents are specifically attracted to rotting pumpkins as they like to munch on the flesh and seeds. Other pests like squirrels and pigeons will also happily feast on pumpkins. To try and prevent this, don’t leave pumpkins outside all day and night. Why not bring them inside for you and the family to enjoy and then display them outside just on Halloween night? And if you decide to carve a pumpkin this year, make sure you clear away any pumpkin guts or seeds. Carved pumpkins can attract many more pests than uncarved ones, so another option is to paint your pumpkins instead (and it’s a lot less messy).
Pumpkins can be great fun this time of year, but just be cautious - you don’t want any unplanned scares! If you’re concerned about pests this season, give us a call: 020 8668 5477.