Somerset Farms FAQs
Here are questions that we are frequently asked:
Do I need to book an appointment?
Yes. We are a small family farm and we want to be a quiet place for families to visit. In order to limit large numbers of people coming at the same time, we are by appointment only.
If you have any questions, please contact us.
Do you allow photography?
Yes we do. We encourage all visitors to the farm to take as many photos as they like for their personal use.
Please tag your photos:
Instagram @somersetpumpkins
Facebook Somerset Pumpkin Farms
Commericial photography must be booked in advance. Please see our photography tab for more information.
Will the pumpkins last until Halloween?
Late August to September is a great time to pick pumpkins in Alberta! Getting them to last until Halloween is a matter of curing them properly, which is very easy to do (see “Curing Pumpkins” below”. I keep pumpkins in my basement from September to April every year, because our family loves pumpkin muffins!
What payment methods do you accept?
We are accept Visa, MasterCard, and cash at this time.
Are you pet friendly?
Yes we are! Dogs are welcome to come visit our farm, but are not allowed in the berry patches. Please ensure they are on leash in case any of our other guests are fearful and supervised outside of the berry fields by a responsible adult. Also, please help us keep a clean place for all to enjoy and clean up after your dog.
My pumpkin has a blemish/spot on it, what should I do?
One of our guests shared a great treatment to prevent pumpkins from rotting. Scrape out the soft spot and get it down to hard flesh. Smear the scrape with honey and allow it to dry. The antibacterial properties of honey will allow the pumpkin to form an scab and prevent it from rotting! If the spot remains after the first treatment, repeat the steps until a scab forms.
Are there other activities to do on your farm during Pumpkin season?
We have a few picnic tables for families to use. In the fall we have a straw bale pile for children to play on, and some free games like tic-tac-toe and a bean bag toss.
What should we bring?
A wagon is a good idea, shoes or boots suitable for a country walk, water and other snacks as we have no concession on site. Pumpkin plants and stalks are also quite prickly so long pants and closed toed shoes are highly recommended.
Curing Pumpkins
How do I make my pumpkin last for more than a few weeks?
If you want your pumpkin to last you need to cure them. Curing is a very simple process that involves hardening the skin and stem to protect the flesh inside from deterioration. If done correctly, your pumpkin should last for 3-6 months.
It is important to leave the stem as long as possible when cutting it from the vine (4 inches or more is ideal) and be sure to carry your pumpkin from the bottom and not the stem. Wipe off any excess dirt from the outside of your freshly harvested pumpkin and place it in a warm sunny location. Outside in the sun is ideal, and let it sit for about 2 -3 weeks. Rotate it periodically to make sure all sides are exposed to the sunshine but make sure you bring it indoors when frost or freezing temperatures are forcast. Pumpkins can not tolerate being frozen! Your pumpkin is cured when the stem dries up and the skin can no longer be pierced easily with your fingernail. Then bring it inside and store in a cool place, off the floor, until you need it.