Metro East Sun

Illinois has cemented its position as the pumpkin capital of the United States, producing over 650 million pounds of pumpkins in 2021. This accounts for nearly 40 percent of the pumpkins grown in the entire country. The state's pumpkin production far surpasses that of its closest competitor, Indiana, which produced 181 million pounds.

"Illinois has been No. 1 in pumpkin production for many years, consistently producing more pumpkins than its closest competitor Indiana," said ***, a spokesperson for the Illinois Department of Agriculture.

The abundance of well-draining soil and hot, dry weather in Illinois creates the perfect conditions for pumpkin cultivation. The state is home to two major pumpkin processing plants, with Nestle Libby in Morton being the largest. This plant alone produces over 85 percent of the canned pumpkins sold in the United States. Seneca Foods also operates a processing plant in Princeville.

The top pumpkin-producing counties in Illinois include Tazewell, Kankakee, Mason, Logan, Will, Marshall, Kane, Pike, Carroll, and Woodford. These areas are known for their fertile soil and favorable climate, allowing farmers to grow a wide variety of pumpkins.

While Illinois is renowned for its jack-o-lantern pumpkins, the state also specializes in the smaller, sweet variety known as sugar pumpkins. These pumpkins are commonly used for making pies and are highly sought after for their rich flavor and smooth texture.

"Nearly 18,000 acres of pumpkins were planted in Illinois in 2021, with 97 percent of those going to processing plants," shared ***, a local pumpkin farmer.

The demand for pumpkin-flavored products continues to rise, driving the production of processing pumpkins. These pumpkins are specially bred and selected to be canned, with a focus on pale flesh, meatier insides, and a more palatable flavor. As a result, the U.S. processed pumpkin market is projected to grow at a rate of over six percent per year for the next five years.

Aside from their culinary uses, pumpkins also have decorative appeal. Many Illinois farms sell wholesale decorative pumpkins to major retailers, while others invite customers to pick their own pumpkins directly from the fields.

The tradition of growing pumpkins in Illinois extends beyond mere statistics. The state has a rich history of pumpkin-growing competitions, with impressive records set each year. Gene McMullen grew the largest recorded pumpkin in Illinois in 2015, weighing in at a whopping 2,145.5 pounds. In 2022, Joe Adkins claimed the title with his 1,760-pound pumpkin.

From planting to harvest, pumpkins typically take around 120 days to grow. Farmers in Illinois begin planting processing pumpkins in April and May, with a harvest that starts in late July and continues through November. On the other hand, ornamental pumpkins are typically planted in May and June for a harvest closer to the beginning of fall. These sprawling plants cover fields with vines that can reach up to 30 feet in length.

With its impressive pumpkin production and diverse pumpkin varieties, Illinois remains the undisputed leader in the pumpkin industry. The state's favorable growing conditions and the dedication of its farmers ensure a bountiful harvest year after year.

For more information on pumpkin production in Illinois, visit here.

For more information on the largest recorded pumpkin in Illinois, visit here.