People/Plant Connection to hold 8th Annual Giant Pumpkin Contest
It's pumpkin planting time. The People/Plant Connection, a nonprofit organization, is sponsoring its 8th Annual Giant Pumpkin Contest. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or beginner, anyone who would like to participate can get two free seeds. Contestants will start their pumpkins and grow them through the summer to get them as large as they can before the weigh-in, Saturday, Nov. 6. Again this year they are mailing the seeds to anyone who would like to grow a giant pumpkin. Simply call 325-656-3104 or go to their website: www.peopleplantconnection.org/contact.html and leave your name and address. The seeds will be available through May.
The PPC had good results with the “First Prize Hybrid” pumpkins last year. There were 10 entries which were the most they've had since the contest began seven years ago. The winner was a little over 50 pounds. Pumpkins, as well as melons, like the dry, hot summers, and the seeds can be planted anytime from now until the end of May. Because they grow fast, gardeners of all ages will enjoy watching them and taking care of these unique melons. This variety can get up to 100 pounds, but most were between 40 and 50 pounds. Not sure how to start? Each set of seeds has an instruction sheet with tips for gardeners.
The annual Pumpkin Festival scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 6, will be the time to bring your pumpkins to the weigh-in. There are no entry fees for pumpkins. Ribbons will be awarded for first, second and third place winners in each category. The categories are Adult (18 yr +), Youth (17 yr and below), and Judges Favorite. During the growing time, contestants can submit their pumpkin photos to be posted on the PPC Facebook page and website. Submit photos to: stanfields@outlook.com.
This year’s Pumpkin Festival will include the Giant Pumpkin Weigh-in and the Pup-kin Costume Contest for your favorite canine. Two Extension agents will be attending the Festival. Allison Watkins, Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Horticulturist, will be giving away free fall vegetable seeds and offering advice on growing vegetables. Courtney Redman, Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Agent, will give food demonstrations how to prepare healthy recipes with fresh pumpkin. Attendees will enjoy tasting the recipes. Pumpkin-flavored desserts will be served and door prizes given away. Whether you have a pumpkin or not, mark your calendar for this special event with fun for the whole family coming this fall.
For information about The People/Plant Connection and to watch the entries grow, go to their website at www.peopleplantconnection.org or like them on Facebook. You can also reach them at 325-656-3104 or write to: The People/Plant Connection, P.O. Box 62841, San Angelo, TX 76906.