Pumpkin problems: Alberta’s wet summer affecting annual crop
Pumpkin patch owners in northern Alberta are looking at unprecedented options, like charging admission, or shipping in pumpkins, as the wet summer wreaks havoc on their crops.
Alberta's wet summer is causing significant challenges for the province's pumpkin farmers. Kate de Windt, co-owner of Somerset Farms, has never experienced such a tough year for their 67 varieties of pumpkins, which they grow on 80 acres. In July alone, the region received 33 cm of rain, leaving many pumpkins smothered in leaves and surrounded by pooling water. De Windt explains that their crops are about a month behind schedule, and as most Albertans know, frost can be unpredictable and early.
The 67 varieties of pumpkins are crucial for de Windt's farm's financial stability, as they generate the majority of their revenue each year. De Windt is considering purchasing pumpkins from southern suppliers or even hosting a pumpkin smash if her crop is deemed too poor. Her story is similar to that of Tam Andersen, owner of Prairie Gardens & Adventure Farm, who is struggling with the high levels of rainfall.
Their farm's highlight, the corn maze, is now a mere "maze for minions" with tall weeds instead of towering cornstalks. The sunflower crop, another key feature, was also lost earlier in the season.
De Windt and Andersen hope that despite the weather challenges, Albertans will still visit local farms this fall. They urge visitors to bring "rubber boots, put some smiles on, and come have fun in the mud" to support the struggling farms.
Written by urgent.news from Global News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
