Pumpkin producers push through drought

[gtxvideo vid=”PUpfC3ET” playlist=”” pid=”rkijshg2″ thumb=”http://player.gtxcel.com/thumbs/PUpfC3ET.jpg” vtitle=”Pumpkin season”]

CHESTER, S.C. (WOLO) — One of the state’s largest pumpkin growers says while the drought has cost him more this summer, it won’t cost you when you go to pick out your jack-o’-lantern. Jeb Wilson and his brother have been growing pumpkins for more than 20 years near Chester. Their family’s post, Cotton Hills Farm, dates back to 1882. Growing pumpkins in South Carolina is not easy. “Growing pumpkins in South Carolina is a lot of extra work, so not too many people are doing it,” Wilson says. The Wilsons grow about 80 acres of pumpkins. This summer’s lack of rain means less profit for the farm. “It’s cost us more money, but we’re selling ’em for the same price as last year.” That means the effects of the drought won’t be felt on your wallet. Keeping the product affordable is especially important because pumpkins are not a commodity good. “Pumpkins are kind of like a luxury item,” Wilson says. “If they get too high, people can choose not to buy them. It’s not like a food item.” Though, like the pumpkins braving the South Carolina heat, America’s love for pumpkins only grows. The first round of Cotton Hills Farm pumpkins will be picked next week. Wilson says they mostly sell wholesale to grocery stores like Harris Teeter in North Carolina, and Earth Fare in Columbia.