This display has several varieties of painted pies (some are small jacks). Also see Hard Gourds section if interested in arts and crafts.
Sugar Pies are known as the cooking pumpkin. They are less stringy than larger varieties and have more natural sugar. Personally, I prefer several Specialty Squash for cooking. Plant breeders have developed several varieties each with it’s own unique traits.
Back row on left is a Mystic Plus or “Big Stem Pie”. This is a miniature Jack-O-Lantern. Next to it is the “Oz” known for it’s smooth skin for painting. On the front row is a Baby Pam known for it’s low profile or squatty appearance. The smallest of the Pies is the Baby Bear a cute little pumpkin with a long stem (if not bagged), great for table or mantle decorations. There are several pie types in addition to these.
For years, Pie Pumpkins have been sold in 50# onion sacks for easy handling. In order to get them in the bag without breaking off the stems they were cut short. These would have to be shipped bulk to preserve that stem shown here.
The Lil Ironsides is a relatative new pumpkin variety. It is smooth, small, very round and as the name implies very hard. Some consider it in the mini category. This is perfect for teachers wanting to give to students for painting. I don't think a cat could scratch it.
A miniature Jack-O-Lantern perfect for Pumpkin Patches offering free pumpkins for children or school tours. Weight is 4 to 8 pounds and a large secure handle or stem.
Look at the huge stem on the green immature still on the vine. Sometimes called “Big Stem Pie”.
