URBANA, Ill. – From jack-o’-lanterns to gourds, University of Illinois Extension has research updates on all things pumpkin.
Since 2014, Illinois Extension staff conduct agricultural field trials regularly to compare yields of different pumpkin varieties grown under realistic conditions. The 2020 field trials are open to the public for in-person or virtual tours September 3 at the Belleville Research Center.
“This year’s trials include more than 80 pumpkin varieties including gourds, jack-o’-lantern, pie-sized, specialty pumpkins of all shapes and colors,” says Nathan Johanning, Illinois Extension Commercial Agriculture Educator. “And for the first time we’re providing a virtual field tour option so anyone can dial in.”
A virtual tour will be available noon CDT. Participants can join from the comfort of their home or office for a live in-field tour of some of the research trial highlights and management and research updates from pumpkin researchers on a wide range of topics related to commercial pumpkin production. Learn more about commercial pumpkin production including, fertility management, variety selection, no-till production, and insect disease and weed management.
Both tour options are free, but please pre-register online at go.illinois.edu/pumpkinday.
In-person tours will be available at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. or 2 p.m. at the Belleville Research Center, 2036 Charles Lane, Belleville, IL 62221. Light refreshments will be provided.
Presenters will introduce the field trials, address various pest and production related topics and further discussion. Participants can then take a self-guided tour of the plots, which will have signs detailing trial information.
Tours are limited to 20 participants each. It is highly suggested that participants wear masks. Social distancing practices will be followed.
The program is subject to change subject to local or state health guidelines. Registered participants will be notified via email should any changes be made.
For more information, contact the program coordinator Illinois Extension Commercial Agriculture Educator Nathan Johanning at njohann@illinois.edu.
Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need reasonable accommodation to participate in programming, contact the program coordinator. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your needs.
SOURCE: Nathan Johanning, Commercial Agriculture Educator, University of Illinois
WRITER: Emily Steele, Media Communications Coordinator, University of Illinois Extension
ABOUT EXTENSION: Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities.