Explore commercial pumpkin production at Extension Field Day

GRAFTON — As Illinois ranks number one in both pumpkin production and processing, it provides a great opportunity to bring together growers, producers, and those who love talking pumpkins.

University of Illinois Extension can help kick off the fall season with a Pumpkin Field Day on Sept. 5 at Eckert’s Orchard at 951 S. Green Mount Rd., Belleville. The day will begin at 10 a.m., and registration includes lunch. 

There is no cost to attend. Advance registration by Sept. 2 is required to receive lunch. Dress accordingly for outdoor conditions, as the event will go on rain or shine. 

About Pumpkin Field Day

Whether a seasoned commercial pumpkin grower or someone looking to learn more about one of the state’s most popular specialty crops, attendees can look forward to a day of everything pumpkin. Explore the world of commercial pumpkin production through presentations and research updates from Extension educators and university specialists.

Additional field day activities include: 

• Tour research trials.
• Listen to topic presentations and speakers.
• Explore pumpkin variety trials.
• Receive commercial pumpkin production updates.
• Network with growers and industry vendors.

The field day allows growers to ask questions, share what they see at home, and build networks with Extension, fellow growers, industry vendors, and beyond. Sample varieties in the trials include specialty pumpkins of all shapes and colors, gourds, Jack O’ Lantern, pie-sized, and a few newly released variations. 

If you need reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, contact Nathan Johanning at [email protected] or by phone at (618) 939-3434. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet access needs.