Halloween pumpkins may not be as large as usual this year due to record-breaking heatwaves and prolonged drought, which have slowed the growth of crops. Farmers are advising families to consider drawing or painting on their pumpkins instead of carving them, as the gourds are expected to be nearly half their usual size, with thicker skins that are harder to cut. This is linked to unusually high temperatures, reaching up to 30°C, which have disrupted the normal growth cycle of pumpkins. The UK experienced five consecutive heatwaves between May and September, with temperatures exceeding 30°C for more than 40 days. This period is typically the peak season for pumpkin growth, but the drought, declared across much of England and Wales, has prevented crops from reaching their full size. David Coulter, a farmer from Suffolk-based Home Farm Pumpkins, described the situation as a "double whammy" of both heat and lack of water, which caused pumpkins to stop growing early, even when moisture was available. Growers are using the situation to highlight the impact of climate change on agriculture. Gavin Lane, president of the Country Land and Business Group, suggested that this could be an opportunity for parents to discuss with children how weather patterns affect food production and farming. The effects of the heatwave are not limited to pumpkins—potatoes have also had a poor harvest, leading companies like McCain, the maker of oven chips, to buy last year's stock to keep operations running. Apples and pears are smaller and falling earlier than usual, with cider makers noting that the heat has made the fruit sweeter, potentially leading to stronger, more alcoholic ciders. In response to the changing climate, sparkling wine producers are looking to England as a new location for vineyards. Favorable weather conditions in the south have made the region more attractive for viticulture. Companies like Tattinger now own vineyards in Kent, and Vranken-Pommery has opened a vineyard in Hampshire, signaling a shift in agricultural practices due to climate change.