UK Twins Break Pumpkin Record After 50 Years of Growing

Two British brothers just proved that patience and perseverance can grow something truly extraordinary.

Ian and Stuart Paton spent 50 years perfecting their pumpkin-growing craft before finally snagging a world record in 2024. Their Atlantic Giant pumpkin, affectionately called "Muggle," weighed in at a staggering 2,819 pounds and measured over 21 feet around. That's roughly the size of a compact car, all grown from a single seed.

The twins had won countless local and national prizes over the decades, earning respect throughout the competitive pumpkin community. But this was their first global title, verified by the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth, the international authority on supersized produce.

Before the Patons claimed the crown, American horticulture instructor Travis Gienger held the record for two years with a 2,749-pound pumpkin he nicknamed "Michael Jordan." These aren't just bragging rights, either. Gienger's record-breaker was later carved into the world's heaviest jack-o-lantern by sculptor Eric Jones, decorated with military designs for Veterans Day.

The Bright Side

What makes this story truly uplifting is how generous the competitive gardening community has become. Both Ian and Travis now freely share their expertise with beginners hoping to grow their own giants.

"Seeds can often be obtained with great genetics for free online, which I would do for the first few years," Ian explains. The horticultural world has embraced collaboration over secrecy, with growers sharing champion seeds for just the cost of postage.

Travis recommends joining online communities like the Facebook group "Garden of Giants" where experienced growers mentor newcomers. "A first-year grower with the energy, time and willingness to learn can oftentimes do better than a veteran," he says.

Their practical advice starts with the basics: choose seeds descended from proven giants, start them indoors in mid-April in cold climates, and plant them in quality compost somewhere warm until they sprout. Ian plants his seedlings with the first true leaf pointing opposite the direction he wants the vines to grow, a simple trick learned over five decades.

The twins grow their champion pumpkins entirely inside a polytunnel, proving you don't need acres of outdoor space to achieve world-record results.

Thanks to the internet and a community built on sharing knowledge rather than hoarding secrets, anyone with dedication can now chase pumpkin glory from their own backyard.