Local Teacher Grows 110kg Pumpkin, Plans Spooky Display for Halloween

UPDATE: A remarkable pumpkin weighing an estimated 110-120kg has been grown by Servatius Antonius, a history and geography teacher from Elton, Ireland. As Halloween approaches, this giant pumpkin, dubbed “The North Mon-ster,” is set to become the centerpiece of local festivities.

Servatius, who previously made headlines for constructing a massive snowman, is now making waves in the horticultural world. “It took four to five people to lift it into the car,” he stated, highlighting the sheer size of his creation. The pumpkin was measured at around 80cm long and 60-70cm wide before being harvested.

This impressive pumpkin is part of a trio grown in Servatius’s garden, with another two sent to Cork and Dublin. “If they were grown in a greenhouse, they would have been even bigger!” he remarked. The pumpkins were sown in early April and planted outdoors in mid-May, utilizing seeds from the large Atlantic Giant variety.

The community eagerly anticipates the pumpkin’s return to Elton for Halloween celebrations, scheduled for October 24, 2023, when North Monastery Secondary School breaks for mid-term. “The locals, especially the kids, are going to love it! More big things to come in Elton!” Servatius enthusiastically shared.

Students at the school will have the chance to carve the giant pumpkin, creating an exciting experience for them. Servatius plans to collaborate with school officials to organize the carving session, saying, “I can’t wait to see their reaction!”

The pumpkin’s growth involved meticulous care. Servatius explained the technique: “You only leave one pumpkin to grow on the plant so all the nutrients and energy go to it.” He emphasized the need for nutrient-rich soil, mentioning essential elements like calcium, magnesium, nitrogen, and potassium to maximize growth.

As the excitement builds in Elton, this giant pumpkin is poised to capture the imagination of the community, further enhancing Servatius’s reputation as a beloved teacher and local figure. With the Halloween season approaching, all eyes will be on the North Mon-ster as it prepares to enchant children and adults alike.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops!