Family Roots: The Story Behind the Patch

Mert’s Pumpkin Patch began in 2020, but the story starts long before that.

 

Merritt never pictured herself as a farmer — she grew up in a suburb of Chicago with the best of both worlds: cornfields just down the road and the city skyline on the horizon. In 1995, a visit to a friend attending UNL brought her to Nebraska... and that visit never really ended.

She’s called Nebraska home ever since, and eventually met and married Ryan — a farm kid with dreams of owning his own land. In 2010, Ryan and Merritt purchased just over 30 acres of farmland in Waterloo, Nebraska, not far from where Ryan’s grandparents once lived and farmed.

To anyone passing by, it might just look like a field. But to us, it’s part of our family’s story — a patch of land full of gratitude, memories, and more hard work than we ever imagined.

Ryan began farming corn and soybeans, and over the years, our two boys have learned alongside him — building skills, patience, and priceless memories every season.

Then one day, Merritt thought: “Let’s grow some pumpkins. How hard could it be?” (Spoiler: harder than she thought — especially the weeding!) She planted pumpkins, gourds, and decorative corn on an acre of land, and named the patch after an old neighbor who used to call her “Mert.”

 

And just like that, Mert’s Pumpkin Patch was born.

What We Believe In

Mert’s is a true family operation. From planting seeds to picking pumpkins, we all have a hand in making it run. Our son Sam is the quiet, behind-the-scenes jack-of-all-trades and diesel mechanic. Charlie? He’s the social butterfly — likely to greet you in the field, cruising around on the Ranger.

We want families to feel welcomed here. No entrance fee. No stress. Just a place where you can breathe in the fresh air, wander the fields, and pick a pumpkin (or five). Whether you're here for 10 minutes or all afternoon, we’re just happy you came.

Our values are simple:

  • Family comes first

  • Community is everything

  • Kindness and good conversations go a long way

  • Support local when you can

We proudly support local causes like Waterloo Days and partner with nonprofits like Muddy Paws Second Chance Rescue, offering donations and gift certificates whenever we’re able.

What Makes Mert’s Special

We may have started small, but today we grow over 30 varieties of pumpkins and gourds, and offer something for every age. At Mert’s, you’ll find:

  • A corn maze (planted with 70,000 seeds!)

  • Tons of photo ops

  • Yard games like corn hole, tic-tac-toe, and checkers

  • Wagon basketball hoop (you’ll see)

  • A grain truck from 1971 that’s still going strong

But the real secret? The people.

Merritt’s friends — every year — show up with no expectation of payment (not even a free pumpkin!) to help plant, weed, harvest, and sell. Without them, there would be no Mert’s. Their heart and hustle are woven into every inch of this patch.

Rooted in Community

We love watching families come back year after year. Some of you have been visiting since 2020 when we were just “a little patch.” Seeing your kids grow, hearing your stories, and being part of your fall traditions means everything to us.

We’ve partnered with local schools, businesses, and community events — and we’re always up for more. If we can help, we will.

Come Visit!

Mert’s is open 5 weekends in September and October.

Hours and updates are posted as the season approaches.

Come out to the patch, pick your pumpkins (from the bin or the field), let your kids run free, and enjoy a no-fuss fall afternoon. We can’t wait to welcome you. 🧡 

Check out our most frequently asked questions about visiting our farm here:

At Merts Market & Farm, we take pride in providing the community with locally grown produce straight from our farm in Waterloo, Nebraska. Our pumpkins, hay bales, and corn stalks are carefully selected for quality and freshness. With our convenient delivery service, you can enjoy the harvest without leaving your home. In addition to our seasonal produce, we are committed to sustainability and eco-friendly farming practices.