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A gardening expert has issued a warning about the potential dangers of improper pumpkin disposal following Halloween. With the spooky season approaching, households across the region are preparing their jack-o'-lanterns and decorations for the annual celebration.
David Denyer, a flower and garden specialist at Eflorist with over 35 years of expertise, has explained what gardeners must avoid doing with their leftover pumpkins - and the reasons behind it. The expert highlighted significant risks associated with placing pumpkins directly into soil or compost heaps, though he notes there are safe methods to repurpose them without damaging plants, soil quality, or local wildlife.
Whilst many residents allow their pumpkins to decompose naturally on flower beds or borders, this practice can "actually cause more harm than good if not done correctly", the specialist cautions. There are also numerous methods available to help extend the lifespan of pumpkins.
David explained: "Pumpkins are high in water and sugars, which means they quickly break down into a thick, slimy layer that blocks air circulation and traps moisture around plant roots. This can then encourage fungal problems, like grey mould or powdery mildew, which can also spread to your nearby plants.
"As the pumpkin decomposes, it also uses up nitrogen from the soil, which temporarily reduces the nutrients available to your plants. Rotting pumpkin flesh also ferments quickly, and the acids it releases can temporarily alter the soil's pH, leaving nearby plants at risk of nutrient stress."
He added: "If you want your pumpkin to help feed your soil, compost it first so it can break down properly before being used in your garden."
The gardening expert also cautioned against adding whole pumpkins to the compost heap, as their thick skin and high moisture content can disrupt the "balance" and cause the heap to "making the heap turn slimy or even anaerobic, which stops it from breaking down properly."
For those wanting to compost pumpkins, the best approach is to cut them into smaller chunks and combine them with dry materials such as "shredded leaves, twigs, or even cardboard".
This maintains the compost "aerated and prevents unpleasant smells while allowing it to decompose efficiently," David explained. The gardening specialist also cautioned against leaving them outside for wildlife, as this could do "more harm than good".
This is due to their high sugar levels, which can draw in rats, foxes, and other pests. The acidity and mould that forms as pumpkins decay "can make hedgehogs, insects, and birds unwell".
The specialist recommended providing fresh water, bird feed or "specialist hedgehog food" if you wish to benefit your local wildlife. Regarding the best way to utilise leftover pumpkins whilst ensuring maximum benefits to wildlife and gardens, David recommended "properly" composting them by cutting into smaller pieces, combining with dry material, and allowing them to "decompose over time".
The expert continued: "Once it has broken down, it becomes a great organic soil improver that'll help your garden retain moisture and nutrients.
"If you don't have a compost heap, you can also bury small chunks in an unused area of your garden. This works like a green manure, adding organic matter below the surface where it can decompose safely without attracting any pests or spreading disease."
One Reddit user shared similar advice: "Some animal sanctuaries are asking for them to be donated. If you decide to put them outside for wildlife, make sure you lift them off the ground so hedgehogs can't get to them as pumpkin makes them poorly."