Demand is growing for newer specialty varieties of pumpkins. "We've expanded some of our acreage on specialty this year and we're seeing very strong demand here in Canada and in the U.S. for those varietals," says Patrick Barclay of Exeter Produce and Storage Company, Limited, noting that it's worked with retail clients to identify varietals customers are interested in. While these have historically included the round white and Blue Doll pumpkins, this year the company has also added other varieties such as Popcorn, Fireball and Porcelain Princess.
© Exeter Produce
L: Blue Doll pumpkin; R: Popcorn pumpkin
Add to that, the company, which grows in a number of regions across the province, anticipates seeing an uptick in demand as well for traditional pumpkins as October closes in. "We grow in different regions to guard against any sort of disruption that we may see from disease pressures, etc. that could impact one area," says Barclay.
2025 pumpkin yields
This season in Ontario, the growing conditions seem to differ by region and variety. "Some of our farms around Thamesville and Essex saw really large fruit whereas some of the farms around the Simcoe area, it's been more consistent in sizing," he says. "Overall though we're seeing good yield across different varieties."
© Exeter ProduceBarclay says the company is seeing very strong demand in Canada and in the U.S. for different pumpkin varietals.
As for pricing, Exeter Produce has worked to keep pricing similar to last year's pricing.
For more information:
Patrick Barclay
Exeter Produce & Storage Co.
Tel: +1 (519) 235-0141
[email protected]
https://www.exeterproduce.com/