News Release
For Immmediate Release — August 17, 2010
University of Tennessee to Host Pumpkin Field Day
University of Tennessee experts showcase many types of
fall fruit at the Pumpkin Field Day, from the time-honored
jack-o’-lantern to remarkable gourds and winter squash.
Photo by Ginger Trice Rowsey.
Download photo
JACKSON, Tenn. – While the pumpkin is most closely associated with Halloween, the date Mid-South pumpkin producers need to keep in mind is September 30, the day of the 3rd annual University of Tennessee Pumpkin Field Day hosted by UT AgResearch and UT Extension.
Held at the West Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center in Jackson, Pumpkin Field Day features seminars on an assortment of topics involving pumpkin production. Visitors can hear information on varieties ranging from the standard jack-o’-lantern to the outrageous gourds that keep customers coming back. You can also get the latest updates on insect, disease and weed control in the pumpkin patch, plus pick up valuable marketing tips for your agribusiness.
New this year, the UT Extension Kitchen Divas will prepare tasty pumpkin and squash dishes. Those in attendance will get to see the Divas in action and sample the delicious treats they whip up.
The West Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center is also home to the largest, most diverse pumpkin display in the South. Typically, more than 5,000 pumpkins, gourds and squash that are grown on the center’s grounds for research purposes are compiled to create this stunning work of art. Visitors to the field day can peruse the display and get great fall decorating ideas for roadside stands or agritourism operations.
Pumpkin Field Day is a free event. It begins at 1:00 p.m. on Thusday, September 30. The West Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center is located at 605 Airways Boulevard in Jackson. For directions or more information on the field day visit the web site: http://west.tennessee.edu.
The Pumpkin Display is located behind the main building and will remain open to visitors through the end of November. The Research and Education Center grounds are open daily from sunrise to sunset.
The West Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center is one of 10 outdoor laboratories operated by UT AgResearch, 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 Science and Natural Resources, the UT College of Veterinary Medicine and UT Extension offices in every county in the state.
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Contacts:
Dr. Bob Hayes, Director, West TN AgResearch and Education Center, 731-425-4769, rhayes1@utk.edu
Ginger Trice Rowsey, UTIA Marketing and Communications Services, 731-425-4768, gtrice@tennessee.edu