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. For Jim, the achievement wasn’t just about growing the largest pumpkin, 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 what keeps him coming back year after year. What began as a desire to spend time with his dad while they were traveling to weigh-offs and competing at the state fair, has evolved into a passion and a connection to a 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 2024 growing season, Jim nearly stepped away, but 2025 told a different story. With a new approach that included a stronger focus on what was happening below the soil, he witnessed a remarkable turnaround and amazing growth with his pumpkin. 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”
Focusing on Root Health & Soil Biology
This season, Jim focused on strengthening the root zone of his plants, which is the foundation of any high growth for any plant. 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, an environment was created where the plant could more efficiently absorb nutrients and as a result sustain rapid and consistent growth.
Fueling Vigorous Growth Naturally
To support the explosive growth phase, Jim also used Peptide SP, a bio-stimulant that provides
organic nitrogen and amino acids essential for plant health.
Doing This helped:
• Drive vigorous vegetative growth
• Support stress resilience
• Improve overall plant performance during critical growth stages
These inputs worked together to maximize efficiency within the plant, and not just improve what was being fed to the plant.
Results Included 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 and create a record-breaking 1,311-pound pumpkin.
Growing in Honor of His Father
Beyond the scale and the success, this achievement meant something more. Jim’s father passed away a few years ago, but the tradition they built together continues to drive him. Jim stated, “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. And sometimes, that mindset -combined with the right system—leads to something truly massive.
Click here for more information on the HardyGro products that helped make this happen.
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