According to Donnybrook’s Noel Hickman, there are four vital ingredients. “Liquid cow and sheep manure, lots of water, some secret ingredients and plenty of bulldust,” he said.

Noel is growing a Californian Giant pumpkin for the Apple Festival’s Giant Pumpkin Challenge. He has named it Percy the Pumpkin.

The challenge is open to all and not limited by age or district.

Noel says the trick is to grow only one pumpkin on the bush and give it plenty of tender loving care.

He also covers it with shadecloth. “It saves putting sunscreen on it,” he said.

“They take over your life. Sometimes I think this gets more care than my wife does.”

Noel talks to his pumpkin regularly, telling it to lift its game.“It’s gotta get bigger than this.”

After the Apple Festival, Percy is destined for pumpkin soup and pumpkin scones.

Queries about the giant pumpkin competition should go to Marilyn Hickman on 9731 1475.