Market Minute: Favorable time for pumpkin, ornamental promotions

From mini pumpkins to ornamental gourds, it’s that time of year again for setting up some nice, attractive, fall merchandising displays.

Pumpkins are actually very nutritious and rich in vitamins, plus high in antioxidant content. The beta-carotene in pumpkins is valuable for eye health. There are many other key health benefits attached to pumpkins, which are grown just about everywhere in the country.

Carving pumpkins are generally available in local farming areas and can be delivered in bins for immediate display with less handling labor.

Some areas may have a lighter supply due to the early weather storms. Other than that, there are plenty of pumpkins for selling.

Here’s what is available for displays — be sure to  use your creativity in building some nice aggressive displays — and be even more creative by setting up displays outside in front of the store or in the parking lot.

• Pumpkin Varieties: There are now all sorts of varieties such as mixed colored and shaped pumpkins. Besides orange, there are white, yellow, blue, pink, striped and warty pumpkins. Go for all the varieties.
• Gourds: These come in many different shapes and colors.
• Indian Corn: Add these to your fall display. There is a long size and mini colored dried ornamental corn available.

Be very creative by adding dried corn stalks and some fireproof bales of decorative straw for excitement. Be sure to review what each of your suppliers or local farmers have that is ready to deliver and use as well as pricing.    

Ron Pelger is a produce industry adviser and industry writer. He can be contacted at 775/843-2394 or by e-mail at [email protected].