Growing Gourds

In 2022 we decided to expand our operation to include a larger amount and variety of fall items. Due to our property layout in Allegan the land was not cohesive to the size of pumpkin patch we dreamed of. talking with my father about our idea he opened up his road front property as an area where we could attempt to grow some more pumpkins, gourds, sunflowers and corn. We made up a plan and tilled up a section of land stretching about 1/3 acre. Following the land prep our newest member of the family decided to make her entrance so I was out of commission in terms helping with planing and maintaining the new patch. However, our family did not miss a beat, they planted 3-4 varieties of pumpkins, 2 varieties of sunflowers, and 3 varieties of corn. 

We had a fantastic growing season with amazing weather which produced a very fruitful crop. We spent the month of September prepping and beginning our harvest. Over the course of the next month and a half over 100 pumpkins would pass through the farm stand and several bushels of corn. We did learn that the section of land where we planted the sunflowers was not the best growing conditions for them, therefore, next year they will be relocated in a better position. However, our corn was beautiful, tall, and grew without problem along side of our pumpkins that thrived even with the increase of squash bugs we were constantly battling. 

Next season in 2023 we look forward to offering even more varieties squash ranging in color and creating a variety of corn wreaths and swag to offer at the stand. So be on the lookout this coming fall for many exciting new items on the farm stand!