The CANNA UK National Giant Vegetables Championship: A Celebration of Horticultural Excellence
The CANNA UK National Giant Vegetables Championship, held annually at the Malvern Autumn Show, is a spectacular event that draws giant vegetable enthusiasts from across the country. This year, the show will take place from September 27-29, showcasing an impressive array of oversized produce that often leads to new Guinness World Records. From the world’s heaviest pumpkins to the longest runner beans and the biggest chilli peppers, the competition features 31 adult classes that highlight the extraordinary achievements of dedicated growers.
A New Class of Competition
Among the exciting additions to this year’s championship is a class for the heaviest cantaloupe melon, with a remarkable £1,000 prize awaiting the winner. This new category reflects the event’s commitment to innovation and the continuous pursuit of horticultural excellence. The inclusion of diverse produce not only broadens the appeal of the competition but also encourages growers to experiment with different varieties and techniques.
The Journey of a Giant Pumpkin Grower
One of the most passionate participants in the championship is Ian Paton, a seasoned horticulturist from Lymington, Hampshire. At 63 years old, Paton has been growing giant pumpkins with his brother Stuart for nearly 50 years. Their journey began with a modest 56-pound pumpkin, which ignited their passion for cultivating colossal produce. “We got the pumpkin sickness then, and now we want the world record. We’re really close to it, very close to it,” Paton shared, reflecting on their ongoing quest for greatness.
Currently, the world record for the largest pumpkin is held by a massive specimen named Michael Jordan, weighing in at an astonishing 2,749 pounds. Paton describes pumpkins as “such cool things to grow” due to their rapid growth and the thrill of nurturing them to their full potential.
The Secrets Behind Giant Vegetable Success
When asked about the secret to growing giant pumpkins, Paton emphasized the importance of genetics. “It’s like a racehorse – you cross a good one with a good one, and you get a good one,” he explained. However, genetics alone isn’t enough; the growing conditions must also be optimal. Paton and his brother grow their pumpkins indoors to protect them from the cold, ensuring a conducive environment for growth.
The commitment required to cultivate these giants is immense. Paton revealed that each plant can consume up to 130 liters of water per day during peak growth. The brothers dedicate around six hours a day to caring for their six plants, a labor-intensive process that spans several months. “It’s just a lot of work,” he noted, highlighting the dedication and perseverance needed in this unique horticultural pursuit.
The Challenges of Giant Vegetable Growing
Despite their passion, Paton candidly acknowledged the challenges of giant pumpkin growing. “Growing pumpkins is a brutal sport, believe me, because things can go wrong really quickly,” he said. Last year, the brothers faced a significant setback, losing all six of their pumpkins—a rare occurrence for them. This unpredictability adds an element of excitement and tension to the competition, as growers must navigate the many variables that can impact their crops.
A Broader Celebration of Horticulture
In addition to the giant vegetable competition, the Malvern Autumn Show features the Grow to Show classes in the Harvest Pavilion, where amateur growers of fruits, flowers, and vegetables compete in over 100 individual categories. This aspect of the show encourages participation from a wider audience, allowing hobbyists to showcase their talents and potentially earn accolades.
The RHS Flower Show will also be a highlight of the event, featuring more than 40 specialist nurseries and growers. Attendees can expect stunning displays, expert advice, and opportunities to purchase top-quality plants, further enriching the horticultural experience.
Conclusion
The CANNA UK National Giant Vegetables Championship is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of passion, dedication, and the art of horticulture. As growers like Ian Paton continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of giant vegetables, the event serves as a testament to the creativity and resilience of the gardening community. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or a curious spectator, the championship promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with awe-inspiring produce and the spirit of friendly competition.