“ Warties ” abound . Ornamental gourds , squash , Indian corn , and so much more is available to create the perfect autumn setting for your home .
Ninety-five percent of what is sold at Slyfork Valley is raised there . From early spring through the first frost , something is always blooming . Whether baskets of petunias ( more than 20,000 are grown annually ) to vibrant clusters of mums and more , production does not stop .
From a landscaping background , Jay commented , “ Recessions found families having to alter their homebeautification plans . Landscaping became too expensive . COVID-19 actually helped to boost our business . Customers turned to flower retailers like us to satisfy their home decoration needs . Finding flowers outdoors , a safer location during the pandemic with so many choices , served to accomplish more than one thing . Families could finally get out of the house , and their homes were brightened as a result .”
Jay and Jennifer want everyone who visits Slyfork Valley to enjoy themselves . This family-friendly atmosphere brings guests back year after year . Those who have experienced the hospitality offered are quick to tell friends and relatives , bringing new relationships into the mix . For the Husers , relationships are most important , as customers become friends .
Another festive fall location that merits a visit is the Hodge Family Farm , located off State Road 9 at 76 E 1300 N , just north of Alexandria . At first glance , one might think this is just another country market . That it is , as Michael and Jennifer Hodge , farmers for five years , sell what they produce on their 20 acres ; pumpkins , sweet corn , tomatoes , peppers , squash , and cucumbers . Working with an honor system , customers can choose and purchase the fresh produce offered paying in cash , by check , or scanning the Venmo app that is available . The market is open as a self-service facility seven days a week .
In the early fall , however , festivities come to life and the site becomes an attraction that will delight the entire family . Beginning September 16 pumpkins , 46 varieties of them , will be for sale , a corn maze will be ready to explore and perhaps get lost in , hayrides are available for the taking , and antique tractors will be on display . This will continue every weekend through Halloween .
On a grander scale , though , is the Hodge Family Farm Pumpkin Harvest Festival . Beginning after only
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