By Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor
As a registered landscape architect, Tom Schaub doesn’t normally design giant corn mazes. But when the Futch family asked if he would design one on its farm for a community event, he jumped at the opportunity.
“It’s something out of the ordinary and was enjoyable to do,” Schaub said. “I’ve never done one before.”
Schaub sketched out the inaugural Fox Squirrel Corn Maze in just a few hours. Measuring 3.6 acres, the shortest route through is one-half mile.
“There’s almost a degree of sadism to try and trick these kids by confusing them,” Schaub said.
The Fox Squirrel Corn Maze is the first corn maze the Futch family will have on its ranch — and the first in Hillsborough County. It will open Oct. 13 — just in time for Halloween — and continue through Nov. 11. The maze will be open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays; Fridays will be reserved for large groups.
The idea first came to Carson, Janet and Wayne Futch last winter.
“We were sitting under an oak tree around Christmas and thought, ‘What can we do out here to keep the ranch interesting and in the community?’” Janet said.
For about a year, the family has been growing the corn. The maze Schaub designed was drawn out with paint by hand before planting. Schaub said laying it out was harder than designing the maze. They had to discuss how long the aisles and buffers would be before mapping it out on land.
“Everyone who has mowed it said this is going to be hard to get through,” Janet said.
Janet estimates it will take at least 30 minutes to get through — if not longer.
“It’s hard,” Janet said. “It’s a difficult maze. I can’t wait to try it out myself.”
There is only one way out of the maze, but staff will be nearby in case a runner can’t make it through.
In addition to the corn maze, the Futches also will feature a pumpkin patch and “Hop on the Hay Wagon” hay rides, which will tour more than 200 acres of the family farm. The family has even created “Squirrely’s General Store,” which will sell food such as seafood baskets and sandwiches, preserves and crafts.
“We hope to get a big turnout, so we can share the fun,” Janet said.
Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com.
IF YOU GO
FOX SQUIRREL CORN MAZE
WHEN: Oct. 13 through Nov. 12. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays; bnoon to 6 p.m. Sundays
WHERE: 3002 Charlie Taylor Road N., Plant City
COST: $7.50 for children; $8.50 for adults
WEBSITE: foxsquirrelcornmaze.com
INFORMATION: (770) 862-0655