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OSU Extension

College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences

CFAES

Extension Today: Pumpkin Growing

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ABOUT THIS EPISODE

Did you know that Ohio is one of the top pumpkin-producing states?

Growing, harvesting, and storing pumpkins – there’s a lot to know and learn! Learn how to pick a great pumpkin for your fall display at home, or what’s best to carve your latest artistic masterpiece. Color, firmness, weight, and handle length are important factors. Then store your pumpkins properly for the best conditions until you are ready to decorate, carve, or eat them.pumpkins on steps

GET THE FACTS!
We have free fact sheets available on Ohioline to help you become a pumpkin producer! Learn how to grow your own – good seeds, plenty of water, and space to grow are some of the necessary elements to create your pumpkin patch at home!

LEARN MORE! 

pumpkins in fieldThis Chow Line post talks a little bit more about how to grow gigantic pumpkins that will be the envy of your friends and neighbors!

Carving pumpkins can be tremendously fun – but you should also do it safely for yourself and the kiddos. Learn how to be a crafty (and safe) pumpkin carver with this Chow Line tip sheet.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture regularly shares information about all crops grown in the United States. The Economic Research Service provides backgrounds data and statistics on pumpkin production, use, wholesale and retail prices, yield, and other factors. You too can dive into the data with this USDA trending topic report.

Pumpkins are also an important seasonal vegetable recognized by USDA SNAP-Ed (Supplmental Nutrition Assistance Program – Education), and numerous resources are available via SNAP-Ed Connection online.

CONNECT WITH OUR EXPERTS!
OSU Extension educators and field specialists provide many educational opportunities and resources. This past summer, a free Pumpkin Field Day was held to help new and experienced growers understand more about pumpkin and squash production, new varieties, disease prevention, and weed management, along with research updates from Ohio State and other experts. Review this announcement for more about what attendees learned, and mark your calendar to attend a future event.

Numerous research studies and pumpkin trials have been held by OSU Extension professionals at the OSU South Centers. Check out some of their past study results.

The Buckeye Environmental Horticulture Team provides education and resources to support the home yard and gardening public, as well as green industry professionals. Team members are local Extension educators who offer public programs (virtual and in-person) about a variety of gardening topics, help diagnose plant problems and offer solutions, support local Master Gardener Volunteers and Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalists, and partner with other horticulture professionals and associations.

Ask a question of our Master Gardener Volunteers – a group of Ohio gardening enthusiasts who are extensively trained in horticulture, then volunteer their time to answer your yard and garden questions online, as well as help with educational programs and activities for Ohio residents through their local OSU Extension county office.