A Few Words About
Who We Are
We are the Kessingers, (not the Plumper family). We named the farm for bigger, better, plumper pumpkins.
We have five adult children. Peter, our oldest, is now running the farm with his Father, Jim. Two others live in the Portland Metro area, another is in Phoenix, Arizona and the last one lives in Austin Texas.
We've lived here since 1993, and have had the pumpkin patch open since 1998. In other words, since Farmer Jim looked like this:
We are excited to welcome you to our farm!
The Kessingers
History of the Farm
Welcome to Plumper Pumpkin Patch & Tree Farm. Where memories are made!
Plumper Pumpkin Patch & Tree Farm, LLC is nestled in the scenic hills just outside Portland, Plumper Farms has been a cherished destination for families, schools, and visitors for decades. Our story began with the Krueger family, who first started farming this land in the early 1900s. In 1993, Jim and Peggy Kessinger purchased the property and began transforming it into the beloved farm experience you know today. With their hard work, vision, and passion for agriculture and community, Plumper Farms quickly grew into a seasonal tradition for thousands across the region.
Under Jim’s guidance and leadership, the farm expanded to include a bustling pumpkin patch, a winter tree farm, a country store, barnyard animals, delicious donuts and cider, and a host of engaging activities that brought families together year after year.
Now, a new chapter is beginning.
In 2022, Peter Kessinger, Jim and Peggy’s son, stepped into a larger role on the farm, fulfilling a dream he’s had since childhood. After five years working as a software engineer, Peter followed in his father’s footsteps, feeling a strong pull toward something more meaningful and connected. He had grown up seeing firsthand the joy the farm brought to the community and wanted to be a bigger part of that impact.
That same year, Peter married his wife, Mary, and together they have since begun raising their two children, marking the start of the fourth generation of the Kessinger family to farm this land.
In 2024, Peter and Jim officially began the transition of ownership, with Peter taking the reins and stepping into a leadership role. True to his nature, Peter is hands-on in every aspect of the farm. From planting and harvesting to building, fixing, teaching, and sharing the farm’s story with visitors. He’s passionate about preserving what makes Plumper Farms special, while continuing to innovate and improve the guest experience.
As we look to the future, one thing remains the same: Plumper Farms is a place for connection: to animals, to nature, to tradition, and to one another. We’re proud to be part of your seasonal memories and look forward to continuing to grow with you.
