From seasoned commercial growers to those simply curious about Illinois' signature specialty crop, everyone can enjoy a day centered on pumpkins. Illinois Extension will kick off the fall season with Pumpkin Field Day on Thursday, Sept. 3, at Eckert’s Belleville Farm. The day will begin at 10 a.m., and registration includes lunch.
Field day activities include:
- Research trial tours
- Topic presentations and speakers
- Pumpkin variety trials
- Commercial pumpkin production updates
- Networking with growers and industry vendors
- On-site lunch
Extension educators and university specialists will share the latest research and production insights, giving attendees a close look at how pumpkins are grown, managed, and marketed. The event will showcase a wide range of specialty pumpkins, including over 75 varieties in all shapes and colors, gourds, jack-o’-lanterns, pie-sized pumpkins, and a few newly released varieties.
Presentation topics will include:
- Insect Pest & Pollinator Management – Kacie Athey, Extension Entomologist, University of Illinois
- Drones for Crop Protection in Pumpkins & Drone Demonstration – Jack Lanxon, Farm Operations Manager, Eckert’s Orchard
- Nutrient Management – Nathan Johanning, Extension Specialist, University of Illinois
- Disease Diagnosis & Management – Mohammad Babadoost, Extension Plant Pathologist, University of Illinois
- Weed & Cover Crop Management – Nathan Johanning, Extension Specialist, University of Illinois
- Trial Tour with 76 varieties of gourds and pumpkins – Nathan Johanning, Extension Specialist, University of Illinois
There is no cost to attend the field day, and a free lunch is provided to those who register before Sept. 1. Dress accordingly for outdoor conditions, as the event will go on rain or shine. Learn more or register for Pumpkin Field Day