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Writer's pictureAlexia P.

Smash Don't Trash: The Benefits of Composting Your Pumpkins

With the fall season underway and Halloween just around the corner, many of us are quickly acquiring an abundance of pumpkins. Whether carved into jack-o’-lanterns or set as festive decor, these pumpkins don't need to end up in a landfill after the holiday! Instead, they can be repurposed in a way that benefits both the environment and our local community.

Why Smash Your Pumpkins?


Composting pumpkins is a simple yet impactful action that offers several environmental benefits. Pumpkins are a completely organic matter, meaning that when they are returned to the earth, they decompose naturally, enriching the soil with essential nutrients.


Instead of sending your pumpkins to the landfill where they decompose anaerobically (without oxygen) and contribute to the release of potent greenhouse gasses, composting ensures they break down in a controlled, oxygen-rich environment. This process helps mitigate the overall carbon footprint associated with waste disposal!


In addition to reducing waste and emissions, composting pumpkins enhances soil health. As the pumpkins decompose, they break down into nutrient-rich organic material that improves soil structure and promotes healthy microbial activity. This enriched soil holds water more effectively, reducing the need for excessive irrigation, and provides a fertile ground for future plant growth. Essentially, what was once a discarded pumpkin transforms into a resource that nourishes the produce we give back to you!



Beyond Soil: Feeding Livestock and Closing the Loop


Composting pumpkins doesn't just benefit the soil; it also provides an opportunity to feed livestock. Pumpkins are a natural, nutrient-dense food source not just for us, but for our animals! Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, pumpkins are an excellent seasonal treat.


After the livestock have enjoyed their pumpkin feast, the leftover scraps - such as stems or any uneaten pieces - can then be composted, ensuring that no part of the pumpkin is wasted. This "feed-to-compost" cycle closes the loop, providing multiple layers of benefit, from feeding livestock to restoring nutrients to the soil.


What to Avoid When Composting Your Pumpkins


While composting pumpkins is beneficial, there are a few things to keep in mind before bringing them to a Pumpkin Smash event:


  • Painted Pumpkins: Paint and other artificial decorations can introduce chemicals into the composting process, contaminating the soil. If your pumpkin is painted, please remove the outer layer or opt for another disposal method.


  • Decorated Pumpkins: Pumpkins adorned with googly eyes, plastic accessories, or glitter should also be avoided. These materials are not biodegradable and can interfere with composting and livestock feeding. Be sure to remove any non-organic decorations/glue before smashing!


Through composting, we are engaging in a responsible, eco-friendly practice that not only helps reduce waste but also contributes to healthier ecosystems. Every smashed pumpkin counts!


Join the Fun!



Our upcoming Pumpkin Smash events are a great way to participate in eco-friendly practices while having a little fun with your leftover pumpkins. Bring your pumpkins, invite your friends and family, and help us make a positive impact on the environment!


Our Events are as Follows:

  • Leonia: Leonia Senior Center from 12:30 - 2:30 pm on Nov 3

  • Tenafly: Tenafly Nature Center from 2:00 - 4:00 pm on Nov 3

  • Hoboken: Maxwell Place Park from 11:00 - 1:00 pm on Nov 3

  • Allendale: TBD


Let’s work together to smash, not trash, and turn our pumpkins into something good for the planet!

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