Every winter we plan our research projects for the coming season, and this year was no different. In some respects this is one of the most enjoyable activities, as we’re enthusiastic about what we might be able to learn, and as Steve likes to say, “so far everything is perfect!” To date we have no weather events, diseases or insects to worry about. Well maybe one exception is the strawberries which are in their second and final season of research. For the most part it’s all good!
- Red determinate tomatoes, 24+ varieties: Studying growth characteristics and yield potential. Locations will be at the Penn State SE Extension Farm, Michigan, and South Dakota. This project will have both outside and greenhouse/tunnel production.
- Processing tomato variety and yield trials: PSU SE Farm. Last year we maximized the yield on Heinz 3406 at 63 ton/acre. This year we shoot for 75 tons or more under intensive management. A small duplication of this project will be established in Michigan.
- Bell pepper variety showcase: We’ll be growing some of the latest bell peppers outside in Lancaster, PA, Michigan, & South Dakota. Checking for yield and other quality indicators. Greenhouse production of same varieties in Michigan.
- Russet potato variety and nutrient trial: Growing russet potatoes successfully in the Mid-Atlantic is very challenging due to hollow heart. We will study three different levels of potash and six varieties of russets for yield and quality.
- High tunnel Cucumber Variety trial: Parthenocarpic cucumbers continue to generate substantial buzz as an alternative high tunnel crop. This year we’ll be looking at several new varieties in the PSU SE farm high tunnel.
- Restore 3G Field Corn trial: We are able to have large plots (30’ x 200’) where we’ll be looking at yield advantages to using Restore 3G both with and without MicroZorb applied at growth stage V5 in high density plantings. PSU SE Research Farm.
- Projects with Virginia Tech and University of Maryland on wine grape production and grape quality.
- Seedless watermelon: Will have 12 varieties, and will also study plant response, fruit counts and quality from MetaboliK HV-1 and a foliar program. Project will be in southwest Michigan.
- Muskmelon variety and fertility project, also studying yield and fruit quality, with and without MetaboliK HV-1. In addition there will be several specialty varieties grown that will not be part of the replicated research.
- Onion project to observe the effects of SiGuard on thrip pressure. Will also include a yield comparison of Candy to Delgado.
- We also want to have several comparison projects with SiGuard on pumpkins, biostimulants on yellow field corn, and blackberries.