When fall arrives and homes across America start filling with pumpkin pies and jack-o’-lanterns, chances are those pumpkins came from Illinois. Known as the nation’s pumpkin powerhouse, Illinois leads by a wide margin, producing over 650 million pounds of pumpkins annually. This accounts for nearly 40% of the entire U.S. pumpkin production, which is more than the next five states combined!
Much of this dominance is due to the rich soil and ideal growing conditions in central Illinois. The region boasts two major pumpkin processing plants, Nestle Libby in Morton—often called the “Pumpkin Capital of the World“—and Seneca Foods in Princeville. These plants process over 85% of the pumpkins used for canning across the U.S.
Beyond the well-known canned pumpkins, Illinois also produces plenty of decorative jack-o’-lantern pumpkins and sugar pumpkins, a sweeter variety commonly used in pies. Pumpkin patches across the state also offer visitors the chance to pick their own pumpkins directly from the fields, creating a fun fall tradition for many Illinois residents.
Morton, Illinois, home to the Libby’s plant, processes more than 90% of the nation’s canned pumpkins. These products end up in everything from pies to soups and even trendy pumpkin-flavored beverages. During peak season, the small town of Morton celebrates its annual Morton Pumpkin Festival, a tradition that dates back to 1967. With Illinois continuing to dominate this industry, its reputation as the “Pumpkin Capital of the World” remains well earned.
The state’s climate, characterized by warm summers and well-draining soil, makes it a perfect environment for growing pumpkins. In fact, Illinois’ agricultural land covers more than 18,000 acres dedicated to pumpkins alone.
Can’t get enough pumpkin?
- Pumpkin themed recipes from the Illinois Farm Bureau.
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- Illinois is The Great Pumpkin State