Canute, OK — History was made at the Harrison Family Farm Saturday when Amber Harrison, known statewide as “The Pumpkin Mom,” shattered two Oklahoma state records during the Oklahoma Giant Pumpkin Growers Weigh-Off.
For the first time ever, Oklahoma saw a pumpkin tip the scales at over one ton. Harrison’s massive giant pumpkin came in at an astonishing 2,166 pounds, setting a new state record. But the pumpkin wasn’t her only record-breaker. She also set the new Oklahoma record for giant squash at 887 pounds, a staggering 257 pounds heavier than the previous best.
From Hobby to History
Harrison began growing competitively in 2019, explaining that her approach alternates between full effort in odd years and technique testing in even years. “It’s all about small yearly improvements that add up to increase your end weights,” she said.
The record-setting squash is only her second attempt at growing the fruit. “Growing a squash is exactly like a pumpkin except they’re green,” Harrison said. “If there is any orange on the fruit it would be classified as a pumpkin.”
The Growing Process
Her process begins in early April each year, starting seeds in carefully prepared conditions before transplanting them to the field. “They get filed, soaked in kelp, then put into a cool whip size container with barely moist seed starting mix,” she explained. The vines and plants require constant care, with soil prep, drip lines, watering systems, and fans all part of the setup.
Much of that work is a family affair. Harrison credits her son Francis as her official partner on the pumpkin and squash entries, with other family members including her son Fulton and husband Tyler pitching in on everything from laying out straw to operating loaders.
Still Learning, Still Growing
Despite her success, Harrison still sees herself as a student. She has learned from online grower communities, mentors across the U.S. and Canada, and by studying plant science resources. She plans to attend the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth conference in Salt Lake City this March to learn more—and maybe pick up a new seed worth growing.
For now, Oklahoma’s “Pumpkin Mom” can enjoy her place in the record books and the sight of a farmyard achievement that weighs more than some cars.
