UK growers prepare 390kg pumpkin for championship

A couple from Ashtead, Surrey, report that a giant pumpkin grown on their allotment has reached an estimated weight of 390kg (860lbs). Justin Griffiths and Kay Walker cultivated the pumpkin at the Leatherhead Poors Allotments, located near the M25.

The couple plans to present the pumpkin at the UK National Giant Vegetables Championship during the Malvern Autumn Show later this month, but they have yet to decide how it will be transported. A second pumpkin on their plot has been estimated at 250kg (560lbs).

Alongside the pumpkins, the pair also grows tomatoes and leeks. Griffiths explained that the size of the pumpkins has dominated the plot. “The pumpkins have got so big they’ve pretty much taken over everything,” he said.

The weight estimates were calculated using three measurements entered into an online tool designed to project pumpkin weights. Walker commented, “It’s unbelievable the Atlantic Giant pumpkins have grown so big. It’s shocked us. It’s going to be bigger and better every year.”

The Guinness World Records lists the heaviest pumpkin at 1,246.9kg (2,749lbs), recorded in California in 2023 and confirmed by the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth.

At the 2024 edition of the Giant Vegetables Championship, organisers confirmed that 12 Guinness World Records and two UK/EU records were awarded, including the heaviest sunflower head at 7.046kg (15lbs) and the longest turnip at 4.8m (15ft 10in). This year’s championship will take place from 26 to 28 September.

Although giant pumpkins are not generally grown for consumption, Griffiths added, “I don’t even like pumpkins.” The couple is considering how to move the largest specimen at the end of the month, with options including an engine crane or group lifting using a tarpaulin.

Source: BBC