Pumpkins/Squash
Results of the 2020 Hastings pumpkin variety trial shared
It’s been many years since we have offered demonstrations on pumpkin varieties at UF/IFAS HAEC (Hastings Agriculture and Extension Center). A few years ago, our local ag inspector and I were having a chat about the... more »
USTR seeks investigation of imported squash and cucumbers
U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer has issued a letter to the Chairman of the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) requesting investigations into the import of cucumbers and squash and the effect on the domestic seasonal... more »
Illinois, home of two processing plants, leads US pumpkin production
Pumpkins are in high demand in America during the fall and winter holidays, whether to be used as decoration or as a key ingredient in various desserts. Illinois leads the country in pumpkin production overall, growing... more »
Ark Foods makes packhouse purchase in historic farming community
Brooklyn, New York-born vegetable company Ark Foods has purchased and opened its first-ever owned property, a 12,000-square-foot packhouse within the historic farming community of Immokalee, Florida. According to a news release, the Ark Foods team... more »
Farmer’s inspiration drives large squash donation to Central California Food Bank
West Side farmer John Diener had flash of inspiration. Why not plant butternut squash? Diener is a long-time research cooperator with UC Cooperative Extension specialist Jeff Mitchell, who has studied innovative, sustainable farming practices for 21... more »
Prize-winning pumpkin weighs in at more than a quarter ton
More than 25 pumpkins were submitted to Georgia 4-H's 2020 statewide pumpkin-growing contest, with the largest pumpkin, cultivated in north Georgia’s Union County, weighing in at a whopping 548 pounds. All Georgia 4-H youth were... more »
Florida Cucurbit Growers’ Conference to be held virtually Nov. 18
The Florida Cucurbit Growers' Conference will be held virtually Nov. 18. This is a virtual conference with plans for future in-person conferences. It will address the fundamental aspects of nutrient and pest management in cucurbit... more »
10 states produce most of the value of America’s pumpkins
Pumpkins are one of the most famous symbols of fall. Many consumers enjoy traveling to local farms to pick out their own pumpkins from a patch, carving Halloween jack-o’-lanterns, or making pumpkin desserts. According to... more »