What Are Those Huge Pumpkins?

What are those big pumpkins that I see in front of stores and malls as decoration? They are much bigger and a little more squashed looking than what I call a regular pumpkin.

Well, the key word there is squashed. They are actually a squash. You are probably referring to what is called Big Max. A large variety of squash that sometimes exceed 100 pounds in ideal growing conditions. The Big Max was developed as a hybrid in the early 60’s. The skin and flesh is very thick and can usually withstand a few frosts or freezes as well as staying firm longer after cutting from the vine. Big Max can be found at many grocery stores and anywhere that sells pumpkins throughout our area in East Tennessee.