A Beginner’s Guide to Picking the Perfect Pumpkin at Lawndale Farm

One of the most fun fall farm activities is picking pumpkins, and why wouldn’t it be? 

After all, fall begins the moment you step into the pumpkin patch. The air turns crisp, the colors shift, and you feel the season take shape around you. 

However, we do find that some want more out of their pumpkin picking experience. If you want the same, you’ve come to the right spot. 

Our pumpkin picking guide gives you clear steps, so your visit feels relaxed, enjoyable, and easy to navigate.

Our Lawndale Farm Pumpkins

Among the many things we grow are pumpkins. But if you really want the perfect one, it helps to know the different types. 

We have three on our farm,  and each has its place and purpose.

Carving Pumpkins

Carving pumpkins stay large, round, and steady on flat surfaces. Their smooth sides help you cut clean lines. These pumpkins work well for porch displays and family carving nights.

Pie Pumpkins

Pie pumpkins stay smaller and denser. Their flesh tastes naturally sweet and blends well into soups, breads, and desserts. Many visitors bring home more than one because they are easy to store and carry.

Decorative Pumpkins

Decorative pumpkins come in many shapes, tones, and textures. Some stay smooth. Others show ridges or stripes. These pumpkins help you build fall displays for your porch, table, or entryway.

How To Choose the Right Pumpkin in the Field

Finding the right pumpkin becomes easier when you know what signs to look for. These pointers help you pick Lawndale Farm pumpkins that last through the season.

• Shape: Round pumpkins sit well on flat surfaces. Tall pumpkins suit porch displays. Small pumpkins are fit for cooking and compact décor.

• Color: Deep orange tones show full growth. Light areas form when pumpkins rest on soil and do not affect quality.

• Stem: A firm, dry stem shows healthy growth. Lift from the bottom to protect the stem and keep the pumpkin in good condition.

• Weight: A pumpkin that feels heavy for its size usually has firm flesh and fewer soft spots.

• Surface: Smooth skin with light marks signals healthy growth. Small scratches are normal for field-grown pumpkins.
  

A few minutes with these checks can help you find a pumpkin that stays bright and sturdy after you bring it home.

Creative Ways To Use Your Pumpkin at Home

Pumpkins give you many options once you take them home. You can decorate, carve, or cook with them. Each path adds warmth and color to your fall season.

Decorating

A pumpkin can fit into your décor with little effort. A large pumpkin near your door sets a welcoming tone. Smaller pumpkins around it add balance. You can mix in mums or straw for more texture.

Carving

Carving offers a hands-on activity for both kids and adults. You can draw simple shapes or playful faces. Children may prefer painting pumpkins, which keeps the pumpkin whole and helps it last longer.

Cooking

Pie pumpkins open the door to many kitchen ideas. You can roast them for purees and use them in soups, breads, pies, or muffins. Pumpkin seeds also make a crisp snack when roasted with oil and salt. These recipes highlight the flavor of Lawndale Farm pumpkins and bring fall into your kitchen.

Fall Farm Activities To Enjoy During Your Visit

Fall at Lawndale Farm gives you many ways to enjoy the season beyond picking pumpkins. These activities bring families, couples, and visitors into the rhythm of the farm at a calm, steady pace.

• Walking the pumpkin patch: Take your time exploring the rows, checking colors, shapes, and sizes as you look for the pumpkin that fits your plans. 

• Hayrides: Seasonal hayrides give you a simple way to take in the farm’s landscape. You ride past fields, trees, and open space that show the colors of fall in full view.

• Pick-your-own tomatoes or pumpkins: Some weekends offer pick-your-own moments where you can gather tomatoes or choose pumpkins straight from the vine. 

• Cornfield treasure hunts: The farm sometimes sets up small treasure hunts in the cornfield. These activities give kids a playful challenge while keeping the day outdoors.

• Seasonal photo spots: Fall colors make easy backdrops for photos. Visitors often stop near the fields, tractor paths, or decorated corners for pictures that mark the start of the season.

• Farm stand visits: After time in the field, you can visit the stand for fresh produce, honey, and other seasonal goods grown on the farm. 
  

On top of these, we hold many other events on the farm year-round. Check out our events section, and stay updated on the latest fall farm activities this year.

Make Pumpkin Picking a Tradition

Pumpkin picking becomes a tradition when you return each year and see how the field has changed. The colors shift, the rows move, and Lawndale Farm pumpkins take on new shapes and sizes with each season.

Plan your visit, pack up the family, and pick your pumpkin. Lawndale Farms is the picture-perfect place for you.