Giant Pumpkins with Joe Kuosman

In this midsummer episode, the Hort Culture team welcomes Joe Kuosman, Lexington-based giant pumpkin grower and co-founder of West Sixth Brewing. The conversation starts with heat survival tips from the hosts (spoiler: giant hats and shade are a must), then dives headfirst into the fascinating world of giant pumpkin cultivation.

Joe shares how his pumpkin passion was planted decades ago in Pittsburgh through a combination of family gardening, seed catalogs, and curiosity. He walks listeners through the evolution of giant pumpkin growing—from seed selection to fertilization, pest control, and even protecting pumpkins from sun damage and cracking.

Highlights include:

• Joe’s personal best: a pumpkin just under 800 pounds.
• Tips for beginners: start with quality seeds, don’t overthink it, and enjoy the process.
• The space commitment: 1,000 square feet per plant.
• Kentucky’s climate challenges and how growers adapt.
• The wow-factor of displaying pumpkins.
• How giant pumpkins become a gateway to growing other "giant" fruits and vegetables.

This episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and quirky charm. Whether you're dreaming of a blue ribbon or just want to see a pumpkin grow 30 pounds a day, Joe's story will squash your doubts and seed your excitement.

Tune in if you’ve ever wondered:

• Can a pumpkin really weigh as much as a Toyota Corolla?
• What does it take to grow a 1,000-pound pumpkin in Kentucky?
• How do you turn a massive pumpkin into a community spectacle?

Kentucky Giant Pumpkin Growers (Facebook)

Growing Giant Pumpkins in the Home Garden

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