Southwestern Ontario farmers are anticipating varying outcomes for the fall harvest this year, largely contingent on the amount of rainfall specific micro-regions have received. Roy Phillips, a farmer with a family history dating back to 1910 in west London, noted the stark differences in crop quality depending on the local rainfall. Pumpkins, a popular choice for Halloween decorations, are also experiencing fluctuations in quality across different areas.
Farmers closer to Grand Bend faced challenges due to a late frost followed by a dry and windy summer, leading to significant impacts on their crops. At Twin Pines Orchard and Cider House in Thendford, the usual pumpkin harvest of a few hundred gourds has been reduced to less than 100 this year, according to Saege Stewart. The cold start to the summer almost wiped out their apple crop, but subsequent dry conditions further strained their yields.
Steve Kustermans from Kustermans farm in Mount Brydges mentioned a need for rain to support their already promising pumpkin crop. In contrast, Maria Noorenberghe’s farm in the same area benefited from well-timed rain that salvaged their pumpkin production. The disparity in rainfall distribution has been a defining factor in the success of pumpkin crops across the region, with some areas experiencing dry spells while others received critical moisture.
As the harvest season progresses, farmers remain cautiously optimistic about the final yield of pumpkins, with a few more weeks of growth ahead. The upcoming weeks will be crucial for the development and quality of the remaining pumpkin harvest.