Carve the Perfect Pumpkin
Greet your trick-or-treaters with a spooky creation this year
Estabrook's has everything you need to carve the perfect pumpkin. Here are a few tips to make your jack-o-lantern truly special this season:
Pumpkin Selection
Selecting the perfect pumpkin can be a tough task considering the different shapes, sizes, and colors. When choosing your pumpkin, keep these tips in mind:
- Select an unbruised pumpkin about the size and shape of your design.
- Make sure the pumpkin has a flat bottom so it sits upright.
- For children, try to select a lighter-colored, softer pumpkin. These don't last as long, but they are easier to carve.
Pumpkin Preservation
There are many effective ways to preserve your jack-o-lanterns. If you can carve 2-3 days before Halloween, we recommend the following preservation techniques:
- Prevent your pumpkin from drying out by placing petroleum jelly on the cut edges of your carving.
- To help prevent premature decomposition, spray your pumpkin with water, cover it with plastic wrap then store it in the refrigerator when it's not on display.
- Soak or spray the pumpkin with water mixed with a little bit of bleach. This will help ward off mold and kill insects for a longer preservation.
Illumination
No matter how great your design is, your masterpiece will only truly shine once the sun goes down. Here are a few tips for lighting up your jack-o-lantern this Halloween:
- When using a candle, cut a hole on the upper, back part of the pumpkin. The hole will work like a chimney by allowing the candle's heat to escape.
- Try creating the opening from the bottom of the pumpkin instead of the top - you can attach the light source to the bottom lid and place the pumpkin over it.
- For a multicolor display, use a battery-operated light with LED bulbs. A flashing light is ideal for spooky pumpkin carvings.
Happy Fall-idays!
Discover fall decorating inspiration in our Garden Emporium, bursting with colorful autumn artificials, rustic indian corn, and pilgrim themed carolers.
Thanksgiving is less than a month away - start decorating for company now and worry about the food later!
Happy "Fall-idays" from Estabrook's!
Cyclamen Care Guide
Cyclamen provides radiant beauty in many shades of color
Cyclamen plants will warm your home during the cold winter months with their vibrant blooms that with proper care, will last a very long time.
The most important criteria for success with growing Cyclamen are temperature, fresh air, and moisture.
Cyclamen will rarely succeed if the temperature goes above sixty-five degrees during the day and fifty degrees at night, making it a great choice for a cool area of your home or office.
They should also be watered daily to keep the soil moist. Never pour the water over the crown of the plant, as this will cause the corm (an underground stem) to rot. They prefer a humid atmosphere, so misting is also beneficial.
Cyclamen will continue to bloom up until April if they are kept cool and happy. As the flower stalks and leaves die off, they should be removed by giving them a sharp tug. New foliage and flowers will soon replace the old. Potted Cyclamen should also be fed monthly with a diluted half-strength liquid house plant fertilizer.
We have a great selection to choose from, so visit us today and enjoy this indoor gem that with proper care, will provide unique beauty for a very long time!