So Minnesota: Lendt’s Pumpkin Patch

For many families picking a pumpkin is a fall tradition.

One family farm in Chisago County has been selling pumpkins for generations.

Val Wittner, owner of Lendt’s Pumpkin Patch, has watched several people grow up over the years.

“We have so many people who say they’ve been coming here their whole life, Wittner said. “Now they’re married with children, and they’re bringing their children here.”

Wittner started selling pumpkins on her front porch, and her family history on the land dates back to the Civil War. Picking the perfect pumpkin, she says, can be very emotional.

“I think they talk to you, like picking a Christmas tree,” Wittner said. “You know you go out to pick a Christmas tree, one talks to you, not it’s better than another one, but that’s the one you need, and pumpkins are that here.”