Abstract

Pumpkin variety demonstrations were conducted in 2025 at the West Central Michigan Research and Extension Center in Hart, MI, to compare yield, size class, and irrigation response among 21 pumpkin varieties representing jack-o’-lantern, large carving, and decorative cultivars. Demonstration plots were established on sandy soil under standard commercial fertility, pest management, and weed control practices. To assess irrigation effects under dry conditions, approximately 60% of each plot received supplemental sprinkler irrigation.

Jack-o’-lantern varieties varied in size distribution, with some producing a mix of 60, 45, and 30–35 count fruit with few larger-sized pumpkins. Others skewed toward larger bin count classes. Large carving and decorative varieties also differed in fruit size, shape, handle characteristics, and yield potential.

The 2025 growing season saw the lowest June–August rainfall of the past decade. Across varieties, irrigation generally increased fruit size. Several larger-fruited varieties showed strong size responses to irrigation, with median fruit weight increases of 40–70%, while others exhibited minimal response.

Comments

The report links to a github page which includes python code for quantifying pumpkin color.

Keywords

pumpkin, Cucurbita pepo, Cucurbita maxima, variety trials

Date of this Version

12-20-2025

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