Aside from giant inflatables and pumpkin spice lattes, gourds are one of the most iconic representations of fall here in the U.S. As the calendar switches to September, a basket of colorful gourds takes the place of the vase of summer flowers on the credenza. Each one truly is different—a different crook, color pattern, warts and all.

If you’ve grown gourds for the first time this year, you need to follow a few basics in order for your them to last through the season. Here are a few tips on making the most of your gourd harvest.

When to Harvest Gourds

Harvest gourds in early fall—September into early October depending on your location. You’ll know when they are ready when the vines start to wither and turn brown. You can also conduct the “fingernail test.” This is as easy as pressing your fingernail against the gourd’s skin. If it resists puncture, you’re all set to harvest! But don’t put off harvesting for too long. If they are touched by frost, their quality could be impacted.

How to Harvest Gourds

Resist the urge to pull your gourds off the vine! Use scissors, garden shears or pruners to make a clean cut, leaving about a 1- to 2-in. stem. This actually helps the gourd last longer after harvest. When you’re handling the harvest process, but careful not to nick or bruise them as these may cause soft spots later on.

Let Them Cure

Once picked, these gourds need time to dry or cure before you set them in a decorative bowl on balance them on your porch. Sure, if you need them for a dinner party ASAP, please do set them out. However, the drying process is critical in order for them to last as decorations through the fall.

First, wipe them with a damp cloth. A dash of bleach on the cloth will help quell mold. Then move them to a space with warm temperatures and ventilation. A sunporch or shed should do it. Lay them out in a single layer and turn them every few days. After about three to four weeks (yes, that long!), you’ll notice the skin has hardened. Ready for showtime!

Get to Decorating

You now have Insta-worthy fall charm wherever you place your gorgeous gourds. They should last several months if they are kept cool and dried.

If you’re lucky enough to have grown some super-large gourds, you can turn them into crafts! I have a friend who created a birdhouse and it’s actually a home to feathered families each spring. How fun! Oklahoma Gardening produced a great video on how to create your own birdhouse out of one. Give it a look and get going on your own gourd creation!