Picking the perfect pumpkin

Halloween is inching closer and with this perfect fall weather now is a wonderful time to head to a pumpkin patch, farmer's market, or store to get the best pumpkin for carving, decorating and eating.  Pumpkins are a long-keeping fruit; a healthy uncarved pumpkin can last to Thanksgiving and beyond.  Below are some tips to consider before bringing home your pumpkin.

• Size-smaller pumpkins are generally good for cooking while larger will be better for carving.  Be careful to not pick a pumpkin that is too big for you to carry.
• Shape-if carving a particular design you should consider what shape will work best for the pattern.  It is a good idea to take your stencil or picture with you when selecting a pumpkin.
• Color-select a pumpkin that is fully orange as a green pumpkin may not ripen in time.  Also, the lighter the pumpkin the softer the skin, which will make carving easier.
• Surface-choose a smooth surface free of dents, cuts, nicks, cracks or splits.  A smooth surface will be easier to carve.  Avoid pumpkins with soft spots and holes as these are more prone to decay and rot.
• Stem-the stem gives character to the pumpkin.  Look for a pumpkin with a sturdy stem.  To avoid breaking the stem, do not carry the pumpkin by the stem.