JACKSON, Tenn. – If you’re a pumpkin producer looking to boost
your business or pump up production, make plans to attend 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.
At Pumpkin Field Day visitors can 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.
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Contacts:
Dr. Robert M. Hayes, director, UT West Tennessee AgResearch and Education
Center, 731-424-1643, rhayes1@utk.edu
Ginger Rowsey, UTIA Marketing and Communication Services, 731-425-4768, gtrice@tennessee.edu