Issue link: http://www.epageflip.net/i/1497185
By Lynn Atkins This year, the Benton County Master Gardeners are introducing a new event at the County Fair – a pumpkin decorating contest! With the fair taking place in September there should be plenty of pumpkins ready for harvest, according to Master Gardener Toy Siler. In addition to the Scarecrow and Giant Pumpkin contests, decorated pumpkins will also be judged this year. All ages are welcome to enter the pumpkin decorating contest. There is no entry fee and individuals can enter more than one pumpkin. There will be two age categories, one for adults and one for ages 19 and younger. Only individuals can enter; group entries will not be allowed. Organizers considered a jack-o-lantern contest, but as Siler pointed out, the weather can be very warm in September and carved pumpkins wouldn't fare well in those temperatures. Instead, pumpkins can be decorated with materials like paint, fabric and accessories. According to the contest rules, entries need to be real pumpkins, not plastic or styrofoam. While some may choose to grow their own pumpkins, that is not a requirement to enter. Master Gardener Sharon Kerr recommended that anyone who wants to enter a pumpkin should experiment with their choice of decorations. A substance like Halloween makeup might seem like a good idea, until it doesn't stick to the pumpkin's skin. The skin of the pumpkin should not be pierced. Kerr and Siler agreed to that glue is a better option to attach decorations. "We think these new artistic categories bring another dimension to the displays – that of horticulture and floriculture," Kerr said. "The exhibit hall is a treasure chest of so many things to enjoy during the fair," said Susan Koehler, Fair and Events Manager. New to County Fair: Decorated pumpkins 2023 Benton County Fair 19