MEEKS: Helpful tips for fall's favorite fruit, the pumpkin

This past weekend, I spent my Saturday coordinating the 4-H Family Pumpkin Decorating contest at the Georgia National Fair. It amazes me the creativity of children. Even though the participants are not allowed to carve, watching and coordinating this event takes me back to my childhood.

I have always enjoyed carving and decorating pumpkins. Even as an adult I still enjoy using pumpkins in fall decorations around my house. Pumpkins were even used as centerpieces in my wedding.

Pumpkins are part of the cucurbit family, which also includes squash, melons, cantaloupes, cucumbers and gourds.

The origin of the pumpkin can be traced back to North and South America. According to the University of Georgia Extension publication "Commercial Production and Management of Pumpkins and Gourds," Native Americans were cultivating pumpkins before Europeans arrived.

Most pumpkins that are grown commercially are used for jack-o'-lanterns and decorations. The search for the perfect pumpkin for Halloween or your fall decorations has become almost as important as finding the perfect Christmas tree. Just ask my husband. It is a good thing that pumpkins come in many shapes and sizes, since people's preferences vary.

So how do you find that perfect pumpkin? The majority of pumpkins for sale are gown in the northern part of the country. Plant viruses and insect pressure have made growing pumpkins in Georgia difficult, but in recent years new varieties have been developed by UGA that show promise to disease resistance. Great pumpkins can be found at roadside stands, local grocers or at local farms. According to the American Phytopathological Society, there are a few things that you need to look for when purchasing a pumpkin. Check for moldy areas or soft spots on the pumpkin. The stems should be green, securely attached and should be able to support the weight of the pumpkin. Mature pumpkins are bright orange in color. After you purchase the pumpkin, keep it in a dry and cool place, but do not allow it to freeze. To help the pumpkin last through Halloween, do not carve until a few days before the event.

Carving pumpkins comes from the Irish legend of Stingy Jack. A man that neither Heaven nor Hell would accept. He was left to wander in eternal darkness with only a burning coal in a carved turnip to light his way. He was referred to as "Jack O' Lantern."

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday-Thursday: Sunbelt Ag Expo, Moultrie

Oct.31: Treats & Sweets on downtown streets, Perry; 4-6 p.m.

For more information on any program area, contact the Houston County Extension at 478-987-2028 or visit the office in Perry at 801 Main St. Office hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Visit the website at www.caes.uga.edu/extension/houston for more news about your local extension office.

This story was originally published October 20, 2015 at 3:19 PM with the headline "MEEKS: Helpful tips for fall's favorite fruit, the pumpkin ."