LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. — Hot and dry conditions have returned to central Pennsylvania, and its ramifications could linger on into the fall.
The popular Cherry Crest Adventure Farm in Lancaster County says it has seen a downturn in pumpkin growing so far this year due to the conditions.
"The pumpkin field is a little sparse this year," said Dylan Coleman, the farm's project manager. "This year, with the heat in July and in the beginning of August and the lack of rain, the production of pumpkins is definitely down."
Coleman says this year's pumpkins were planted in June amidst a heat wave, putting the crops at an initial disadvantage.
The pumpkins aren't the only aspect of the farm that's been affected by the hot weather this year. Coleman says the corn stalks that make up their annual corn maze may not be as high as they have been in normal years, and that its sunflowers may also be a bit more sparse as a result of the dryness.
Despite this, Coleman says crowds continue to flock to the farm, and that the autumn activities the farm is known for- including pumpkin picking- should not see a disruption this year.
"There's still over 60 activities here for people to come out and enjoy, from the jumping pillows to the apple cannons to straw bale towers and everything else in between," Coleman said. "There's plenty to do."