Is there any way to prolong the lifespan of a carved pumpkin?
Once a pumpkin has been carved, it has two or three days before it takes on that rather sad, sunken look. I recommend using Vaseline around the cut edges to make it last a little longer. For whatever reason, it helps slow deterioration.

Should the stem be considered when picking a pumpkin?
Yes. Make sure the pumpkin you’re buying has a stem, and never pick the pumpkin up by the neck. People do it all the time and it drives me crazy. If the stem snaps or is missing, the top of the pumpkin will be exposed to bacteria and become a breeding ground for fungus.

Could you indulge us in a little Carving 101?
It’s good to have a design in mind before you buy your pumpkin. Search the Internet for inspiration—there are a lot of downloadable stencils. You can also buy stencils at some plant centres. I always give pumpkins a mild washing just to get rid of any debris. In terms of carving options, you can carve right through or scar the surface (removing the rind and exposing the yellow flesh). Martha Stewart’s got that technique down pat. Once you’ve hollowed out the interior, have fun with the design: try drilling holes in the shell or carving silhouettes freehand or with stencils. I usually use a dull pencil to draw my design on the pumpkin before getting started—markers are less precise and less forgiving if you make a mistake. I also would recommend using a knife specifically intended for pumpkin carving. Finally, always put a hole in the back of your pumpkin—I use an apple corer—so that the candle has an air vent.

Pumpkins are most commonly carved with jagged grins and geometric peepers. Are there any other uses for the Halloween staple?
At the nursery, we’ve started planting in hollowed out pumpkins and gourds. Small pie pumpkins work best—I usually fill them with mums or asters for a table centrepiece. For something a little different, I like an arrangement of cabbage and kale, embellished with decorative branches and sprigs of berries. It’s bright and very fall. A grouped selection of uncarved decorative pumpkins is also attractive.

What’s the best way to remove a pumpkin’s innards?
If you have kids, get them to do it with their hands—they love it. Otherwise, I would recommend using a small cereal bowl for scooping out a big pumpkin. A shallow soup spoon also works well.