Growing in High Tunnels 101 Part 2
Jay Sleichter Jay’s Jellies Produce and More Clay Center, Kansas
Growing in High Tunnels 101 Part 2
This presentation and additional information can be found at www.jaysjellies.com
Growing in a High Tunnel • Fertilizer Use • Insect Control • Repair and Maintenance
Fertilizer use • Soil Test First! – Use lots of compost and specific fertilizers – Calcium Nitrate for Tomatoes – Fertigation through drip tape – Cover crops – We don’t use manure or manure based compost due to the 120 day rule.
Insect Control • Perfect environment for pests 1. 2. 3. 4.
APHIDS Spider mites Cucumber Beetles/Squash bugs Cabbage Loopers
Insect Control APHIDS- Ladybugs and Predatory Wasps
Insect Control Spider Mites-Beneficials Cucumber Beetles –Exclusion –Spray Cabbage Looper –Bt spray
Greenhouse Plastic Maintenence • Most buildings are covered with a single layer of 6 mil plastic. • You can cover with two layers and inflate with air. This is better for insulating and for wind. • When buying plastic, shop around • When covering endwalls, check out www.farmtek.com for odd sizes, closeouts and end of roll pieces.
Repair and Maintenance • Always close during a storm • High wind, close wind side, leave other side open, if you must vent. • Snow, Sweep of • Periodically check bolts and tape tears asap, both sides is best. • Keep plastic tight
Repair and Maintenance
Repair and Maintenance
Wind video
Repair and Maintenance
Weather Concerns Snow and Wind
http://www.happyhollowfarm-mo.com/
Weather Concerns Snow and Wind
10-12 inches of snow
January 10th, 2011
Sweeping Snow
Growing in a High Tunnel • Fertilizer Use • Insect Control • Repair and Maintenance