Severe drought impacting pumpkin patches and tree farms

COLUMBUS (WCMH) -- The four-month drought reduced crop yields in parts of eastern and southern Ohio by approximately 50 percent.

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor shows continuing extreme to exceptional drought conditions south and east of the Columbus area, despite some significant rainfall two weekends ago from the remnants of Tropical Storm Helene.

Pumpkin patches were also hard hit by the lack of moisture since early June. Stacy Roberts, who manages Roberts Farm Market with her husband Kevin in Lockbourne in northern Pickaway County, said that farmers who were able to irrigate had better luck with their crop size.

Looking at their dried-up pumpkins in a field two miles north, she said "The stems are super brittle this year." The Roberts purchased pumpkins from a farmer in Licking County in September to augment their supply, as rainfall has been more reliable north of I-70.

Brett Rhoads, who owns Rhoads Split Rail Nursery southeast of Circleville, said this year was the driest he has experienced in 37 years.

"As far as Christmas trees and the conifers go, you'll probably see a lot less growth this year," he said, adding that customers may notice a "quicker needle drop from being stressed from the heat and drought."

Overall, this season's Christmas trees are in relatively good shape despite slower growth because they were planted under more favorable moisture conditions. However, mature trees could show the effects of a record-dry June through September next spring.