In this week’s edition of Fridays in the Field, we are back at Vala’s Pumpkin Patch and Apple Orchard located near Gretna, Nebraska.
Bryce Doeschot caught up with Vala’s Agricultural Manager, Vaughn Hammond, who shared an update on the growing season for the apples and pumpkins that are grown on the farm.
Quick stats on the farm:
– 40 acres of pumpkins
– 40 acres of apple trees
– 1000 apple trees per acre
– Up to one bushel of apples on each tree
September 1st marked opening day for season pass holders. The farm welcomes several hundred thousand people during the Fall. Hammond explains that the month of September features mostly weekend festivals.
“So we will have different themed festivals on the weekends and then on October 1st we’re open 7 days a week.”
Stats on season logistics:
– 900 to 1000 employees during the season
– Season lasts nine(ish) weeks
– Nearly 50 attractions
The operation will be open through the end of October.