Growing Gourds !
STORY BY BENJAMIN LERNER PHOTOGRAPHY CRAIG LIGHT & COURTESY ARMSTRONG FARM
On Route 7 , just south of Bennington in Pownal , the Armstrong Farm farmstand holds a special place in the hearts of many visitors and lifelong Vermonters – especially during the height of the Fall season . The vibrant foliage on the surrounding trees creates a breathtaking backdrop behind the on-site shop , which is well-stocked with maple syrup , maple cream , and other Vermont-made products . A gently-sloping hillside stands adjacent , lined with rows of locally-grown gourds and pumpkins from their nearby farm in North Bennington . At the top of the hill , gourds and pumpkins are arranged to spell out “ VERMONT ” in uppercase letters , providing an unforgettable Fall photo opportunity for vacationers and local residents alike .
While the colorful gourds and pumpkins at the farmstand are certainly aesthetically appealing , the process that goes into growing them is equally as compelling as their striking curves and varying textures . The gourds at Armstrong Farm are great for festive fall gatherings and showstopping decorative centerpieces , and they are grown using conscientious , time-tested , farming practices . In the months leading up to the Fall season , VERMONT Magazine sat down with the owners of Armstrong Farm to learn more about the growing process behind their beautiful gourds . From the ground to the farmstand hillside , each step in the journey of every gourd grown at Armstrong Farm is deeply rooted in their honest and hard-working Vermont values .
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