News and Announcements
Rader Family Farms to Host Illinois State Horticultural Society Summer Field Day on June 11, 2026
NORMAL, Illinois – Rader Family Farms will welcome growers, researchers and industry professionals from across the region on Thursday, June 11, as the host site for the Illinois State Horticultural Society’s Annual Summer Horticulture Field Day, beginning at 8:30 a.m.
Set at one of Illinois’ leading agritourism destinations, this on-farm event provides a unique opportunity to explore current trends, challenges and innovations in specialty crop production while strengthening connections across the industry in a relaxed, conversational setting.
Rooted in nearly 80 years of agricultural heritage, Rader Family Farms is a fourth-generation family operation that began in 1935 as Plainview Guernsey Dairy Farm. After transitioning to grain farming in 1971, the family expanded to farm approximately 2,400 acres of corn and soybeans throughout McLean County. What began over 20 years ago as a small pumpkin stand has since grown into an 80-acre agritourism destination featuring pumpkins, gourds, squash and a recently established high-density apple orchard with 3,000 trees and 14 apple varieties.
Throughout the morning, attendees will participate in educational sessions and field discussions centered around specialty crop production, including apples, flowers and pumpkins. Topics will include rootstock selection, pruning and thinning practices, orchard layout and installation and pollination efforts. Pumpkin production also will be highlighted, with insights into growing methods, varietal selection, field layout and disease and insect management. In addition, floral crops such as sunflowers, zinnias and mums will be featured as part of the farm's diversified production.
The tour will also include University of Illinois Extension specialty crop researchers and educators in entomology, pathology and horticulture, who will provide insight and answer questions throughout the day, offering practical, research-based knowledge to support growers in the upcoming season.
At the same time, attendees may choose to participate in discussions highlighting the operational side of the farm. This portion will highlight event space planning, revenue development and operational considerations, along with retail strategy, including merchandising, top-performing products and product testing. Participants also will gain insight into commercial kitchen operations, including regulatory compliance, food safety requirements and the development of value-added and signature food items, as well as the role of farmers markets and local partnerships in supporting diversified revenue streams.
The Summer Field Day encourages conversation, collaboration and the sharing of ideas among growers, researchers, suppliers and industry partners. It continues to serve as a valuable platform for education and connection within Illinois’ specialty crop industry.
The Illinois State Horticultural Society also invites businesses and organizations to participate as sponsors, supporting this engaging, on-the-farm learning experience. Sponsorship contributions help offset event costs and allow the organization to continue its mission of educating growers, connecting industry professionals, and supporting research in tree fruit production across Illinois.
Event Details:
What: Illinois State Horticultural Society Summer Horticulture Field Day
When: Thursday, June 11 | 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Rader Family Farms, 1312 Ropp Road, Normal, Illinois
For more information, to attend or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please contact:
Jenna Spychal - jenna@jonamacorchard.com 217-254-5258