The first study used data from a survey of Kentucky high tunnel vegetable growers, and identified common production challenges related to disease, pest, and weed management in high tunnels. The survey results suggested a large percentage of respondents were not familiar with soil borne diseases and plant-parasitic nematode problems in high tunnel production. In contrast, they were aware of issues related to arthropod pests and weeds, with aphids, whiteflies, crabgrass, morning glory, and chickweed as the most commonly cited. Survey results also indicated that although very few survey respondents were using soil solarization as a strategy to overcome production challenges, the people using this strategy were very satisfied with the results. Furthermore, a large percentage of respondents were willing to try solarization in the future.
Solarization heats moist soil to high temperatures by trapping solar radiation under transparent plastic tarps and is a non-chemical option for managing pests and diseases that could be less labor-intensive and more sustainable. The survey findings offer valuable guidance for resource providers that could help them better target the information needs of high tunnel growers, specifically those related to the management of soil borne diseases, plant-parasitic nematodes, arthropod pests, and weeds.
The second study examines the willingness of Tennessee fruit and vegetable farmers to
adopt alley cropping systems, a practice that integrates trees or shrubs with crop
production to enhance soil health, diversify income streams, and improve overall farm
resilience. The research assessed the factors that could influence Tennessee fruit and
vegetable farmers' willingness to adopt alley cropping, such as familiarity with the
production system, economic incentives for adoption, land and labor availability,
production challenges faced, age, education, and risk preferences. The study also
assessed survey respondents' reasons for being willing or not willing to adopt alley
cropping. The top-rated reasons for not being willing to adopt this practice include the
negative impact of taking land out of production to implement alley cropping, and lack of
labor to implement this practice. On the other hand, the top-rated reasons for being
willing to adopt this system included benefits related to increased organic matter,
increased productivity, restoration of soil structure and reduced compaction.
Understanding farmers' perspectives on this system provides crucial insights for
policymakers and extension services aiming to promote agroforestry-based solutions,
specifically alley cropping.
Together, these studies contribute to the advancement of sustainable agricultural practices, equipping farmers with research-backed strategies to enhance production efficiency and environmental stewardship. By addressing both current challenges and future opportunities, this research supports the ongoing evolution of fruit and vegetable farming in the region.
According to the author. "The motivation of the project focusing on high tunnel production (LS23-384) is to evaluate the efficacy of soil solarization as a viable pest and disease management method in the upper southeastern region of the United States. The project focusing on alley cropping aims to establish alley cropping as a viable solution for vegetable production in the southeastern United States."
Dr. Velandia is a professor in the Department of Agriculture and Resource Economics at the University of Kentucky. Her research focuses on the development and dissemination of knowledge that helps agricultural producers make informed decisions about the adoption of sustainable farming systems.
The full article can be read on the ASHS HortTechnology electronic Journal website at: https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05593-24 and https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05582-24
Established in 1903, the American Society for Horticultural Science is recognized around the world as one of the most respected and influential professional societies for horticultural scientists. ASHS is committed to promoting and encouraging national and international interest in scientific research and education in all branches of horticulture.
Comprised of thousands of members worldwide, ASHS represents a broad cross-section of the horticultural community-scientists, educators, students, landscape and turf managers, government, extension agents and industry professionals. ASHS members focus on practices and problems in horticulture: breeding, propagation, production and management, harvesting, handling and storage, processing, marketing and use of horticultural plants and products. To learn more, visit ashs.org.
