KEWAUNEE COUNTY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – The countdown is on along the Lakeshore for Saturday’s Giant Pumpkin Fest in Mishicot.
The event is the final official weigh-in of the season.
But, what does it take to raise one of the potential champions?
When it comes to growing pumpkins at Hillside Apples near Casco, Bill Roethle has about 25 years of experience. But a few seasons ago he was introduced to a new pastime.
“We started these pumpkin plants in early April. Got them pollinated in mid and late June. They’ve been growing ever since.”
They are giant pumpkins. Roethle says it begins with scientifically-selected seeds.
“I have the genetic history on these. I know what pumpkins they came from.”
Roethle says the plants are given plenty of fertilizer, and water — lots of water.
“We start putting at least 50 gallons of water per day, per plant. Some are 50-100 gallons a day.”
Roethle says each pumpkin needs a 30 by 40 foot plot to grow.
“For two weeks, it was putting on over 40 pounds per day. So in two weeks, this one put on over 600 pounds in early August.”
The giant is one of two displayed at Hillside Apples. It’s become a popular attraction for many, including the Robinson family from Kewaunee.
“People driving by, obviously they’re going to see the big pumpkins right away. So it’s going to bring them in. But I definitely think people should come out, check it out,” said Jeremy Robinson, Kewaunee.
“They’re so different, and so amazing. They’re just so big, and I don’t know how they do it,” said Mary Robinson, Kewaunee.
Meanwhile, the larger gourd, which is estimated to weigh as much as 1,800 pounds, waits for the Saturday weigh-in at the Giant Pumpkin Fest in Mishicot.
“I think this one could’ve been a couple hundred pounds heavier, if I’d done some things differently. But live and learn. It’s addicting. It’s kind of like, it’s exciting to get up in the morning and see what’s going on in the pumpkin patch every day. So, it’s just something to get you out of bed in the morning,” said Roethle.
The world record giant pumpkin weighs 2,749 pounds. Last year’s winner from Mishicot was 2,147.5
The celebration begins Saturday morning in Mishicot.
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