From Tradition to 1,311 Pounds: How One Indiana Grower Produced the State’s Biggest Pumpkin

In LaOtto, Indiana, what started as a simple hobby between a father and son has grown into something extraordinary.

In 2025, Jim Beal grew the “largest pumpkin in the state of Indiana”, tipping the scales at an incredible 1,311 pounds - more than half a ton.

For Jim, the achievement wasn’t just about size. It was about persistence, passion, and continuing a tradition that began years ago alongside his father. “It’s nothing that’s happened to me before, so it’s kind of cool,” Jim said
"Growing giant pumpkins isn’t easy". In fact, Jim is the first to admit the odds are stacked against you.

“The failure rate is pretty high. But when you succeed, it’s fun.”
That challenge is exactly what keeps him coming back year after year.
What began as a way to spend time with his dad—traveling to weigh-offs and competing at the state fair - has evolved into a deep passion and a connection to a growing community of dedicated growers.

“We had a great time going to the different weigh-offs… it was just a great time to spend with him.” After a difficult growing season the year before, Jim nearly stepped away. But 2025 told a different story. With the right approach - and a stronger focus on what was happening below the soil - everything clicked. At peak growth, his pumpkin was gaining up to 40 pounds per day. “When you start getting a plant that’s gaining 40 pounds a day, it just surges… it’s just an amazing to see” 

Building the Foundation: Root Health & Soil Biology

This season, Jim focused on strengthening the foundation of his grow—the root zone.
He incorporated HardyGro UltraBio, a soil-building input designed to enhance microbial activity, improve nutrient availability, and support stronger root development.

By improving the biology and structure of the soil, Jim created an environment where the plant could take up nutrients more efficiently and sustain rapid, consistent growth.

Fueling Vigorous Growth Naturally
To support that explosive growth phase, Jim also used Peptide SP, a bio-stimulant that provides organic nitrogen and amino acids essential for plant health.

This helped:
• Drive vigorous vegetative growth
• Support stress resilience
• Improve overall plant performance during critical growth stages
Together, these inputs worked to maximize efficiency inside the plant, not just what was being fed to it.

The Result: Consistent, Explosive Growth
With a stronger root system and improved nutrient efficiency, Jim’s pumpkin maintained steady, aggressive growth throughout the season.
Instead of fighting common issues like nutrient lockout or inconsistent development, the plant was able to perform at a high level day after day.
The result was a record-breaking 1,311-pound pumpkin - and a grow that came together when it mattered most.

Growing in Honor of His Father
Beyond the scale and the success, this grow meant something more.
Jim’s father passed away a few years ago, but the tradition they built together continues to drive him. “It was a sad moment… but I think he’d be happy just keeping the tradition of growing.”

A Reminder to Keep Growing
Jim’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible with persistence, the right approach, and a commitment to improving each season. You never know. Just try not to give up.”
And sometimes, that mindset -combined with the right system—leads to something truly massive.