The NC State Fair showcased some truly massive pumpkins and watermelons this year in its Agri Supply and Expo Center, with two pumpkins weighing in at over 2,000 lbs each. The competition, sanctioned by The Great Pumpkin Commonwealth, saw growers from different states competing for the title of the largest gourds. West Virginia dominated the pumpkin competition, with Chris Rodebaugh setting a state record with his 2,206.1-pound pumpkin.
In a separate competition open only to North Carolina growers, Ernie Coley took the first-place prize with an 824.2-pound pumpkin. The watermelon competition was won by Andrew Vial from Liberty, NC, with a 258.6-pound fruit.
Despite challenges in growing conditions this year, farmers in North Carolina have displayed remarkable resilience in producing such impressive entries. The Great Pumpkin Commonwealth, which promotes growing giant vegetables, awarded cash prizes to the top three winners in both the pumpkin and watermelon competitions.
This year’s NC State Fair showcased the dedication and skill of growers from different states, with West Virginia growers dominating the pumpkin competition and North Carolina growers excelling in the watermelon competition. Despite challenges in growing conditions, the farmers persevered and produced some remarkable entries that impressed fairgoers. The Great Pumpkin Commonwealth, an international organization, rewarded the top growers with cash prizes, reflecting the hard work and dedication that goes into growing giant vegetables.
Source
Photo credit www.carolinajournal.com