From The Editor’s Desk

As we move deeper into September, two critical factors are shaping Indiana’s agricultural landscape: the rapid onset of drought conditions and the approaching pumpkin harvest season. The U.S. Drought Monitor reveals a dramatic shift in our state’s moisture status—from just 26% of Indiana considered abnormally dry one week ago to a striking 76% as of September 2nd. Moderate drought has also expanded significantly, particularly affecting southwestern counties along the Ohio River and scattered areas across northern Indiana.

This dry trend comes at a pivotal time for pumpkin growers who are now focused on harvest timing and post-harvest handling strategies. Whether you’re preparing jack-o’-lanterns for Halloween or pie pumpkins for the holiday market, proper techniques from field to storage will determine your season’s success in an increasingly challenging moisture environment.

This week’s newsletter addresses these timely concerns with guidance on maximizing pumpkin quality through proper harvest and storage practices. We’ll also explore fascinating insights from recent producer survey research that reveals how small farmers balance transparency with pragmatism when communicating their production practices to customers—findings that challenge some common assumptions about direct-to-consumer marketing.

Don’t miss our spotlight on the upcoming Southwest Purdue Ag Center Pumpkin Field Day, featuring comprehensive sessions on variety selection, pest and disease management, and weed control strategies. With drought conditions expanding and harvest decisions looming, this hands-on educational opportunity couldn’t be more timely for pumpkin producers across the region. We are also featuring waterhemp in a weed spotlight article.