LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) — As soon as Halloween fades, millions of pumpkins across Michigan will sit quietly in post-celebration glow, wondering what will come next. More often than not, however, these bright orange gourds are either left to wither away on doorsteps or end up discarded in the trash—but your jack-o’-lanterns don’t have to share the same fate.

Pumpkins are versatile, rich with nutrients, and surprisingly functional beyond October 31. With a bit of creativity, Michigan families can give their pumpkins new purpose, transforming them into garden enhancements, wildlife treats, and even unique holiday decor.

1. Turn It into a Bird Buffet

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Michigan is home to countless migrating birds that would happily visit a pumpkin-turned-feeder. Cut the pumpkin in half, clean out the insides, and fill it with birdseed. Whether placed on the porch or hung from a tree, this repurposed pumpkin can attract numerous local birds.

2. Create a Hearty Fall Soup

It’s easy to forget that decorative pumpkins are actually edible. For those inclined toward the kitchen, pumpkins can be a delicious base for soups, curries, or pies. Roasting the pumpkin first brings out its sweetness, and with a few autumn spices, it makes a soup that can warm any chilly Michigan evening.

3. Try a Pumpkin Planter

With a bit of soil and some creativity, you can turn a hollowed-out pumpkin into a planter. Ideal for autumn flowers like mums or pansies, a pumpkin planter makes a festive statement on your front steps or porch. It’s not just ornamental either; as the pumpkin decomposes, it will naturally fertilize your plants, making it as functional as it is charming.

4. Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

No need to let those seeds go to waste. Rinse, season, and roast them for a yummy snack. These seeds are full of magnesium and antioxidants, making them a healthy alternative to traditional fall snacks. Add a pinch of salt, garlic powder, or even a bit of cayenne for a spicy twist that’s perfect for enjoying during a Saturday football game.

5. Host a Pumpkin Smash

For those seeking a more physical approach to pumpkin disposal, why not hold a “pumpkin smash?” Set up a safe space in your yard, grab a bat or a mallet, and let everyone join in for some smashing fun. It’s cathartic and ensures the pumpkin pieces can later be collected for compost.

6. Feed Local Livestock

Many farms and animal sanctuaries in Michigan gladly accept leftover pumpkins, provided they’re paint-free and natural. Chickens, goats, and even zoo animals like elephants love to munch on these seasonal treats. A quick call to a nearby farm or sanctuary can give your pumpkin new purpose as a tasty snack for local animals.

7. Thanksgiving Decor 

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Repurposing pumpkins into Thanksgiving decor extends their life with a touch of elegance. Smaller pumpkins, untouched by carving, can become Thanksgiving centerpieces with the addition of dried leaves or branches. For larger pumpkins, a bit of neutral paint or a stencil pattern can create understated fall decor, tying Halloween and Thanksgiving together in style.

8. Make Pumpkin Candles

Turning a hollowed pumpkin into a natural candleholder is a fun DIY project. Melt some wax, add a wick, and pour it into the pumpkin shell. For added ambiance, use cinnamon or clove-scented oil for a cozy autumn aroma.

9. Use It as Garden Mulch

If you have a garden bed, your pumpkin can do wonders for the soil. Chop it up and spread it as a top layer, where it’ll break down and enrich the ground over time. Pumpkins are nutrient-rich and break down quickly, making them perfect for enriching soil. 

10. A Gift for the Wild

While some wildlife agencies discourage leaving pumpkins out, in rural areas or well-managed spaces, leaving a carved pumpkin outside can attract Michigan’s smaller animals—squirrels, birds, and perhaps even the occasional deer. Just be mindful of local guidelines, as some creatures, such as bears, should not be lured into populated areas.