If you’re a pumpkin producer looking to boost your business or pump up production, make plans to attend the sixth annual Pumpkin Field Day hosted by the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture. The field day begins at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 26, at the West Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center in Jackson.

At Pumpkin Field Day visitors can see the newest and best varieties for the pumpkin patch, learn about insect, disease and weed control and get updates on important business and tax issues. The field day also offers visitors a chance to meet with seed company representatives and network with fellow pumpkin producers.

A new addition to the program is a special presentation on growing giant pumpkins. The pumpkin classes will be concluded with a tour of the state’s largest pumpkin display (comprised of 5,000 pumpkins, gourds and winter squash!) and a special presentation on designing your own festive fall displays.

According to a survey taken last year, visitors estimated the information gained in the production, business and marketing classes at Pumpkin Field Day would net more than $1,000 in their pumpkin operations.

Pumpkin Field Day is a free event that includes a complimentary lunch. Preregistration is strongly encouraged. If interested in attending, please email gtrice@tennessee.edu or call 731-425-4768.

The complete schedule of classes can be found at west.tennessee.edu. Two pesticide points will be available in Categories 1, 10 and 12.

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