There are several ways to keep bugs away from pumpkins. Here are some tips from the search results:

• Petroleum jelly or vapor rub: Applying petroleum jelly or vapor rub on the pumpkin can make it slippery and unattractive to squirrels and bugs.
• Hair spray: Spraying the pumpkin with hair spray daily can make it taste bad and sticky, which is unpleasant for squirrels and bugs.
• Bleach water: Spraying the inside of the pumpkin with a solution of one teaspoon of bleach to one gallon of water can prevent many bugs from crawling around inside, as bleach tastes bad to bugs.
• Lemon juice: Rubbing lemon juice on the outside of the pumpkin can help keep it from browning.
• Citronella candle: Placing a citronella candle inside the pumpkin can deter bugs like mosquitoes.
• Clean out the guts: Removing as much of the inside of the pumpkin as possible can reduce moisture, which contributes to the decaying process and attracts bugs.
• Choose the right pumpkin: Selecting a firm pumpkin with no soft spots or blemishes can help prevent bugs from infesting it.
• Wait to carve: Carving the pumpkin too early can lead to natural decay, so its best to wait until closer to Halloween to carve it.
• Treat the outside: Spraying the outside of the pumpkin with a solution of lemon juice or bleach water can help delay rotting.
• Avoid using candles: Using a glow stick or battery-powered light instead of a candle can help keep pests away from the pumpkin.

By following these tips, you can help keep bugs away from your pumpkin and preserve it for longer.