HARVEST AND USE

Pumpkins need to mature properly, so wait to pick until rinds are fully colored and tough enough to resist piercing with a fingernail and vines have died back. Then cut, leaving a good stem handle. Let pumpkins cure for 10 days in the sun, then store in a cool dry place and they’ll keep for months. Carve Spookies into happy or scary holiday faces or bake them up into sweet spicy pies, cakes, cookies or savory soups.