Reaching New Heights: The Guinness Certified Sunflower in Fort Wayne and Our Inspectors’ Part in It

Allen County Inspectors Mike Vore (left) and Mark McClurg (right) stand in front of “Clover” the Guiness World’s Tallest Sunflower at 35ft 9in.

In a remarkable and sunny turn of events, Fort Wayne gardener Alex Babich has grown a sunflower affectionately named “Clover” that has officially been recognized by Guinness World Records as the tallest sunflower in the world, measuring an astounding 35 feet 9 inches.

This achievement did not just grow on its own. It was carefully measured and verified in keeping with the high standards of fair measurement. That is where our colleagues Mark McClurg and Mike Vore, Allen County Weights and Measures Inspectors, stepped in to certify the measurement for Guinness. As inspectors, their role is typically grounded in precision and regulatory compliance, but witnessing and validating this extraordinary botanical record was truly a once in a lifetime experience.

“This was not your typical day on the job,” said Mark McClurg. “To be called on to measure the tallest sunflower in the world is something I will never forget.”

Mike Vore agreed. “It really shows how versatile the work of weights and measures can be. Accuracy matters whether you are in a grocery store, at a gas station, or standing in a garden next to a plant that reaches higher than most rooftops.”

“Clover” towered over the previous record held since 2014 by a German grower by more than five feet. This was a monumental leap in the world of horticultural records. The journey to the record was closely watched. Earlier in August, the sunflower had already surpassed the United States record by reaching 26 feet 8 inches and continued rising until it reached its historic height.

When the time came to confirm “Clover” as the tallest in the world, precise measurement was critical. That is where Mark McClurg and Mike Vore came in, ensuring the measurement was accurate and compliant with Guinness World Records protocols. Their expertise in measurement standards played a vital role in authenticating this extraordinary botanical feat. Their presence lent credibility and confidence to the record, reminding us that trustworthy measurement, whether in markets or in sunflower stalks, is at the heart of public trust.

Alex Babich’s “Clover” is a towering testament to gardening dedication and a shining moment for the measurement community. Thanks to the work of our Allen County inspectors, this sunflower’s place in history stands on a foundation of precision and professionalism. It is a story that blooms with pride, highlighting how weights and measures, often behind the scenes, sometimes step into the spotlight in the most extraordinary ways.

Here is to “Clover,” to record breaking roots, and to the inspectors whose expertise helped make this tall tale officially true.