Tennessee growers observe a pumpkin crop at Pumpkin Field Day. Image courtesy of UT Ag. |
JACKSON, TN – Tennessee growers are ready to kick off the fall season with a visit to the 7th annual Pumpkin Field Day hosted by the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture. The field day begins at 11 a.m. on Thursday, September 25, at the West Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center in Jackson.
The event will give visitors an opportunity to see the newest and best varieties for the pumpkin patch; learn about insect, disease and weed control; and pick up creative fall agritourism ideas. The field day also offers visitors a chance to meet with seed company representatives and network with fellow pumpkin producers.
New additions to the program include a presentation on cover cropping for pumpkins, a session on managing risk through product liability insurance and a walk about of the grounds with UT Extension Horticulturist Carol Reese.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to tour the state’s largest pumpkin display (comprised of 5,000 pumpkins, gourds and winter squash!) and hear a special presentation on festive fall display design.
According to a survey from previous field days, visitors estimate the information gained in the production, business and marketing classes at Pumpkin Field Day is worth more than $1,000 to their pumpkin operations.
Pumpkin Field Day is a free event that includes a complimentary lunch. Pre-registration 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 online at west.tennessee.edu. Pesticide points will be available.
The West Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center in Jackson is one of 10 outdoor laboratories located throughout the state as part of the UT AgResearch system. UT AgResearch is a division of the UT Institute of Agriculture. In addition to its agricultural research programs, the UT Institute of Agriculture also provides instruction, research and public service through the UT College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, the UT College of Veterinary Medicine and UT Extension offices in every county in the state.
