Author: Heather Berger, Extension Research Technician at CEFS Small Farm Unit
The Small Farm Unit wrapped up the first summer season of a new high tunnels project. Dr. Sanjun Gu with the Cooperative Extension and N.C. A&T State University has joined us to present and compare two high tunnel covering techniques. With the popularity of high tunnel farming on the rise, Goldsboro’s surrounding communities can benefit from this area-specific resource to learn about equipment inputs and cultural practices.
The focus of this project is to show two approaches to high tunnel construction: single-layer covering versus double-layer covering. A single-layer high tunnel covering has one sheet of polyethylene film, can operate without electricity, and offers the many potential benefits of growing in a protected space. A double-layer covering has two sheets of film inflated by a fan. This method offers increased insulation, reduced solar radiation (six percent reduction per layer), and requires a power source to operate the fan.
The CEFS SFU Summer 2022 Field Day was an ideal time for visitors to interact with Dr. Gu and his research. Many people were considering implementing high tunnel farming into their operations and had the opportunity to see the high tunnels during peak summer production. In March, eggplant, tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers, cantaloupe, watermelon, and specialty vegetables luffa and bitter melon were transplanted into both tunnels. Plots were laid out with identical plantings in each tunnel to help isolate comparisons between coverings. Solanaceous plants were trellised with a Florida weave and suckers were pruned. Cucurbits were supported with roller-trellises, pruned to a single-leader, and lowered according to new growth. All of these were planted into raised beds with plastic mulch and drip irrigation. Peas were directly seeded along the inner perimeter as a cover crop. Plants were manicured all season with recommended high tunnel cultural practices of continual removal of lateral shoots, lower leaves, and weeds.
A highlight for conducting CEFS projects is giving back to our communities. Dr. Gu’s summer 2022 research with the SFU donated 4,000 pounds of fresh-picked produce to help feed some of Goldsboro’s most vulnerable citizens. The harvests from the high tunnels were donated to the Goldsboro Community Soup Kitchen, the Fordham Home, and nearby food distribution centers. Watch for upcoming CEFS SFU Field Day announcements for a chance to see our seasonal high tunnel farming practices and for an update on the performance of two covering techniques.
