A gardening expert has urged caution when disposing of pumpkins after Halloween, saying not doing so properly could have serious consequences for gardens and wildlife. With spooky celebrations approaching, households across Britain are carving up and displaying pumpkins for decorations.
David Denyer, a flower and garden specialist at Eflorist with more than 35 years of expertise, has revealed what gardeners must avoid doing with their leftover pumpkins – and why. The experienced horticulturist explained there are significant risks associated with placing pumpkins directly onto soil or into compost heaps – but there are safe methods for reusing them without damaging plants, soil quality, or local wildlife. While many households simply leave their pumpkins to decompose on flower beds or borders, this practice can “actually cause more harm than good if not done correctly”, David warned.
There are, however, a number of ways to help preserve pumpkins for longer periods. 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 warned against placing whole pumpkins in the compost heap, as their thick skin and high water content can disrupt the “balance” and cause the heap to “turn slimy or even anaerobic, which stops it from breaking down properly.”
For those wanting to compost pumpkins, it’s recommended to chop them into smaller pieces and combine them with dry materials such as “shredded leaves, twigs, or even cardboard”. David said this allows the compost to remain “aerated” and “prevents unpleasant smells while allowing it to decompose efficiently”. The gardening specialist also cautioned against leaving them outside for wildlife, as this could cause “more harm than good”.
This is due to their high sugar levels, which can draw rats, foxes, and other pests. The acidity and mould that forms as pumpkins decay “can make hedgehogs, insects, and birds unwell”.
The expert suggested providing fresh water, bird seed or “specialist hedgehog food” for those wishing to make a positive contribution to their local ecosystem. On how to optimally utilise leftover pumpkins and ensure maximum benefits for wildlife and gardens, David suggested composting “properly” by chopping it into smaller pieces, mixing with dry material, and allowing it to “decompose over time”.
The expert further stated: “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.”
Echoing these sentiments, one Reddit user said: “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.”