Growing pumpkins in Ireland: the experience of farmer Tom Dillon

According to the Agriculture and Food Development Authority of Ireland (Teagasc), the pumpkin cultivation area in the country has grown from 81.23 hectares in 2021 to 146.3 hectares by 2026, representing an 80 percent increase.

Tom Dillon, owner of the Alright Pumpkin farm, has been growing this crop for 12 years. The idea came to him after a trip to the USA, where he saw the popularity of pumpkins during the Halloween season. Upon returning home with his wife Natasha Sherling and having no idea whether they would grow in Ireland, he purchased seed. In the first season, the farmer had about 50–60 customers, and today the assortment features 48 different cultivars, including heirloom varieties from around the world like the blue-grey skinned Jarrahdale, as well as Spanish and Italian culinary varieties.

According to the grower, the current season has been particularly successful due to the hot weather, which helped the fruits form a tough skin. Dillon notes that water and genetics influence pumpkin size, while the sun plays a key role in producing a strong skin and rich orange color, as well as successful storage for Halloween.

The seed is sown annually by April 25. First, the seedlings spend a month in a polytunnel until a few true leaves appear, after which the plants are transplanted into the open soil. Dry weather is important for successful pollination, as excess moisture fills the flowers with water, hindering the work of pollinators. If necessary, the crops are additionally irrigated, and by the end of September, the harvest is usually ready.