Autumn has officially begun, and farms across North Carolina are working tirelessly to grow produce perfect for consumer demand. Corn, apples, sweet potatoes and squash are among the many crops that are being harvested and sold this fall season. But one popular fruit has surpassed them all: pumpkins. 

Pumpkins have been symbolizing fall, and specifically Halloween, for centuries. Around 80 percent to 90 percent of pumpkins available on the market are orange, circular in shape, and roughly the size of a beach ball. There are dozens of articles, websites and books out there dedicated to helping people find the “perfect pumpkin.” But what about not-so-perfect pumpkins? What happens to the other 10 percent to 20 percent? 

For at least 50 years, pumpkin breeders were careful about getting rid of imperfections — warts, disfigurations and odd colors. That’s because ugly pumpkins didn’t sell as well as “flawless,” smooth, round ones. As a matter of fact, ugly pumpkins were usually sold inexpensively for making pies or other desserts. Recently, however, the trend has taken a turn. Americans are now choosing weird or unusual pumpkins instead of searching for traditional ones, and farmers have been reaping the benefits. A normally inexpensive tradition in years past, ugly pumpkins today can sell for 50 dollars or more, the seeds themselves being bought for 200 dollars a pound.

But besides the obvious advantage of money, ugly pumpkins can be a more creative way to get into the fall spirit. When decorating, individuals who buy ugly pumpkins can get inventive with colors, textures and shapes. A warty pumpkin could be the perfect head for a witch or one that’s lopsided could be used to carve a funny face. Whatever the pumpkin, it’s important to keep an open mind and let your imagination run wild. Happy Spooky Season!