Space-bred pumpkins weighing 150kg were grown in Zhejiang, China — a cosmic twist to modern farming and rural tourism.
A farm in Ninghai County, Zhejiang Province, recently grew several giant pumpkins from space-bred seeds. The largest pumpkin weighs about 150 kilograms. Space breeding means sending seeds into space, where cosmic radiation and low gravity cause genetic changes. Scientists bring these seeds back to Earth and grow them to find new traits like a bigger size or better resistance.
These space pumpkins have low starch content and do not taste very good. Because of this, people mainly grow them for decoration and fun. Many family farms use these giant pumpkins as attractions during harvest festivals and rural tourism activities. Their huge size and unique origin make them a popular sight for visitors.
China leads the world in space breeding. It has sent the largest variety and number of biological materials into space. So far, scientists have developed more than 700 new plant varieties using this method. Over 300 of these have passed official approval for farming and sale. Apart from pumpkins, space-bred crops include rice, wheat, tomatoes, and peppers. These plants often grow faster or resist pests better than traditional types.
Ninghai’s giant pumpkins show how science helps modern farming in China. They also highlight how rural communities use innovation to promote tourism and boost local economies. Space breeding is one example of how technology meets agriculture, creating new opportunities for farmers and visitors alike.
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