Giant pumpkin may be linked to microalgae research

A giant pumpkin at a tourist attraction in Kent may be the by-product of some university research.

The 420kg (66 stone) pumpkin was grown at the Secret Garden Centre in Quex Park in Birchington, where a University of Kent-led project is looking into whether microalgae can enrich animal feed and soil to produce healthier plants and food.

"The site has been farming microalgae in a polytunnel and frequently used the neighbouring pumpkin patch to dump any excess algae," a university spokesperson said.

"Whilst the pumpkin was not part of the controlled experiments, its size and quality does suggest that the microalgae may have had a role in its growth."

The pumpkin has been nicknamed Madam Quexzilla Plumpkin.

Liam Cowdery, who runs the garden centre, said: "We cut open the pumpkin and the wall is about six inches thick.

"It's also preserved the vibrant orange colour which I'd like to think is due to the carotenoid content in the algae."

Farmers have reported challenges growing pumpkins this summer due to extreme heat and lack of rainfall, with many pumpkins significantly smaller than usual.

The university's microbiology researchers will now be using the microalgae grown at Quex Park to trial its application across three farm sites growing winter wheat, spring beans and spinach.

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