Kankakee Times

Illinois is proudly known as the Pumpkin Capital of the World, and for good reason. The state leads the nation in pumpkin production, with nearly 40 percent of all pumpkins grown in the United States coming from Illinois, according to Rep. Bill Hauter (R-Morton).

With over 650 million pounds of pumpkins produced in 2021, Illinois outperformed the next five top states combined. Indiana, the second-largest pumpkin producing state, fell far behind with 181 million pounds. The ideal combination of well-draining soil and hot, dry weather in Illinois creates the perfect conditions for pumpkin production.

The town of Morton is particularly proud of its pumpkin heritage. Home to Nestle Libby, the largest pumpkin processing plant in the country, Morton produces over 85 percent of the canned pumpkins sold in the U.S. Additionally, Seneca Foods operates a processing plant in Princeville. Tazewell, Kankakee, Mason, Logan, Will, Marshall, Kane, Pike, Carroll, and Woodford are the top pumpkin producing counties in Illinois.

"Being born and raised in Morton, I can tell you we are very proud of our pumpkin heritage," said Rep. Bill Hauter. "Agriculture is the number one industry in Illinois generally and in my district specifically, with pumpkin production playing a huge role. We are proud to be the pumpkin capital of the world!"

While Illinois is known for its jack-o-lantern pumpkins, the state also excels in producing the smaller, sweet variety known as sugar pumpkins, which are commonly used for pies. In 2021, nearly 18,000 acres of pumpkins were planted in Illinois, with 97 percent of them going to processing plants.

Aside from their culinary uses, jack-o-lantern pumpkins also serve as popular decorative items. Illinois farms often sell decorative pumpkins wholesale to major retailers, and many growers invite customers to their farms for an in-person picking experience.

The demand for pumpkin-flavored products continues to grow, fueling the production of processing pumpkins. These pumpkins are specifically bred and selected to be canned, with pale flesh, meatier insides, and a more palatable flavor. The U.S. processed pumpkin market is projected to experience a six percent annual growth rate over the next five years.

Although Illinois boasts impressive pumpkin production, the world record for the largest pumpkin was set in Italy in 2021, weighing a whopping 2,702 pounds. However, Illinois has its own record to be proud of, with Gene McMullen growing a pumpkin weighing 2,145.5 pounds in 2015. Last year's winner in the 2022 Illinois pumpkin contest, Joe Adkins, grew a pumpkin weighing 1,760 pounds.

From planting to harvest, pumpkins take approximately 120 days to grow. Libby's and Seneca Foods partner with farmers in their respective regions to grow processing pumpkins. These seeds are typically planted in April and May, with harvests starting in late July and lasting through November. On the other hand, ornamental pumpkins are usually planted in May and June for a harvest closer to the beginning of fall. These sprawling plants cover fields with vines that can reach up to 30 feet long.

Click this link to access more information: https://rephaas.com/2023/10/06/illinois-is-the-great-pumpkin-state/