Illinois produces more pumpkins than any other state, but most aren’t destined to become Jack-O-Lanterns or Halloween decorations.
More than 80 percent of the pumpkins grown in Illinois will be processed into pie filling or other food products.
In other states, including California, Michigan and Virginia, the vast majority of pumpkins are sold fresh, ready to be used for decorations or pumpkin carving, but not as good for eating.
All states produce some pumpkins, but 40 percent of the country’s pumpkins are grown in six states — Illinois, California, Texas, Virginia, Indiana and Michagan.
