MADRAS, Ore. — Growing anything in Central Oregon’s unpredictable climate can be a challenge, but for Ed Pugh, it has become a passion — and a science. Despite battling scorching heat, late frosts, and short growing seasons, the Madras gardener is once again nurturing a giant pumpkin that may break his personal record.
Pugh, now in his fourth year of growing massive pumpkins, says the process is equal parts art, science, and patience.
“Every year I write down ‘Don’t make this mistake’ in my logbook so I can see it next year,” he said, laughing. “Some of them I remember really well, but I’ve got all kinds of tips I leave myself for the following year.”
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His attention to detail has paid off. Pugh placed second overall in his very first year competing, and in his second year, he grew a pumpkin weighing an astounding 1,381 pounds.
“I’m not sure I’ll beat my personal best,” he said. “I’ve got one this year that’s estimated at 1,400 pounds, but you never really know how big it is until it’s on the scale.”
Battling the Elements
Farming in Madras means fighting against nature almost every step of the way. Summers often bring triple-digit heat, while late frosts can arrive well into June — both of which can spell disaster for tender pumpkin plants.
“When we get over 100 degrees, the plants start frying the tips of the vines,” Pugh explained. “And we have frost well into June, so you have to protect those little pumpkin plants early on so they can have a longer growing season.”
Pugh uses everything from shade cloths to frost covers to help his plants survive. He says constant monitoring and care are key to keeping the massive pumpkins healthy.
The Science Behind the Size
For Pugh, growing giant pumpkins is more than just a pastime — it’s a hobby rooted in experimentation and learning.
“I would encourage anybody looking to up their gardening game to look into giant pumpkins because it’s actually quite a science,” he said. “You’ve got to prepare the ground, take a soil test, follow fertilizer recommendations, and then there’s a lot of daily work. It’s an excellent retirement hobby.”
This year, he even branched out into growing a large watermelon, just to test his skills in another area. But his true passion remains with his signature orange giants.
Looking Ahead to the Regatta
Pugh’s pumpkins are nearing their peak just in time for one of Oregon’s most beloved fall events — the West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta, scheduled for October 18 in Tualatin.
While he hopes to finish in the top five for size or beauty, Pugh says he’s just happy to participate. “It’s about the experience,” he said. “The friendships, the learning, and watching something you grew reach over a thousand pounds — that’s rewarding enough.”
With a few more weeks of growth left, his pumpkin could still pack on additional pounds. “They can gain as much as 20 to 30 pounds a day in the final stretch,” Pugh said. “Every morning, you can actually see the difference.”
Tips for Aspiring Growers
For those inspired to give giant pumpkin growing a try, Pugh recommends visiting The Pacific Giant Vegetable Growers website, which offers resources, soil guides, and community forums for beginners.
“It’s a lot of work,” he said, “but it’s one of the most fun and satisfying things I’ve ever done. Once you start, you’ll be hooked.”
As fall settles in across Oregon, Pugh’s garden once again stands as proof that with patience, preparation, and a bit of stubbornness, even Central Oregon’s harsh weather can’t stop a grower determined to make something extraordinary.
