Visiting local orchards is a staple of Wisconsin’s autumn traditions, and this year Hillside Apples in Kewaunee County added a truly spectacular highlight. Owner Bill Roethle and his son Brad, who grew up on the farm, unveiled a giant pumpkin that tipped the scales at 1,703 pounds.
Family Tradition of Giant Pumpkins
Bill Roethle explained that the orchard normally produces about ten varieties of standard jack‑o‑lantern pumpkins, each differing in size, shape, and stem. Six years ago he began experimenting with giant pumpkins, a hobby that quickly turned into a family passion. “We grow these for display here now, but we also take them to competitions,” he said.
Last weekend the Roethles entered the massive gourd in a weigh‑in at Fond du Lac, where it placed fourth among the state’s biggest pumpkins. “The weight was 1,703 pounds – my personal best so far,” Bill noted proudly.
Brad Roethle Prepares for Mishicot Festival
Brad Roethle, who helped tend the pumpkin this season, plans to enter the upcoming Mishicot pumpkin festival weigh‑in. He estimates the pumpkin currently weighs around 1,200 pounds, adding, “It’s a good size. I can’t pick it up myself, but it’s looking strong.”
The Roethles emphasized that growing a pumpkin of this magnitude requires extensive care, abundant water, and ample space. “When the plant was first planted it covered roughly a thousand square feet,” Bill explained. “We position the pumpkin in the middle of that area and pollinate it at the right time. It’s a summer of hard work and dedication.”
World Record Context
While the Roethles’ pumpkin is impressive, the current world record belongs to a Rhode Island gourd that weighed an astounding 3,156 pounds. Nonetheless, the Kewaunee County effort showcases the dedication of local growers and adds excitement to regional harvest celebrations.
Visitors to Hillside Apples can see the giant pumpkin on display and learn about the techniques used to nurture such large produce. The orchard continues to offer a variety of pumpkins for families to pick, carve, and enjoy throughout the season.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
