Progress 01/05/07 to 01/04/13
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Short field seasons and challenging climatic conditions have resulted in limited local production and high dependency on food brought into Alaska. Concerns for interference in delivery systems and year-round availability of affordable high quality food from outside sources have promoted efforts to enhance local production. To extend production throughout the year, techniques such as high tunnels, greenhouses and other types of controlled environments need to be explored. Production efforts during periods other than traditional field seasons tend to be challenged with high demands for energy to compensate for low temperatures and limited daily light. Many communities throughout Alaska are working toward sustainable cost-effective long-term energy solutions. Greenhouses intended for food production ought to be part of these advancements for a comprehensive approach to sustainability. Significant amounts of information are available using energy efficient greenhouse production systems, although management adaptations to high latitude environments are still inadequate. For instance, more efficient lighting technologies such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) require research for information dissemination and guidelines that are appropriate for high latitude production conditions. Various communication and educational channels have been used to reach and meet the needs for information and training of various groups throughout the state. We are continuously communicating with producers and individuals interested in pursuing or who already are engaged in the use of high tunnels, greenhouses and other types of production systems. Training opportunities in topics related to horticultural production are regularly offered and presented to students at secondary and post-secondary levels. Presentations are frequently provided at local, regional, national and international meetings, conferences and workshops on crop production in various environments including greenhouses, high tunnels, season extension techniques and field conditions. Our partnerships with the local greenhouse operations at Chena Hot Springs Resort (CHSR) and Pike's Waterfront Lodge in Fairbanks, have been used to reach large and diverse groups with information and education. These collaborations allow for interactions with the general public and visitors from various regions along with training and apprenticeship opportunities for students and interested individuals. Daily educational programs on greenhouse operation and management are conducted year round at CHSR. Each guided tour has a minimum of 15 participants from local populations, residents from various parts of Alaska, and visitors from all over the world. At Pike's, techniques suitable for northern greenhouse production are used and demonstrated to local and visiting individuals and groups during the summer months. Formal and self-guided tours attract at least 20 daily visitors during the summer months. Pamphlets describing the greenhouse operations at CHSR and Pike's support the educational programs and have been widely distributed. PARTICIPANTS: Meriam Karlsson, Professor of Horticulture, project manager; Cameron Willingham, Research Professional; Jeffrey Werner, Research Professional; Jeffrey Johnson, Research Associate; Terry Marsh, Research Associate; Katherine Albers, Research Associate; Chris DuBois, Research Associate; Yosuke Okada, M.S. student; Susan Woods, M.S. student; Heidi Rader, M.S. student; Nina Schwinghammer, B.A. student; James Ward, B.S. student; Andrew Winkelman, B.S. student; Patrick Terra, B.S. student; Patrick Sanders, B.S. student; Justin Hogrefe, B.S. student; Melissa Gagnon, B.S. student; Kate Fournier, B.S. student; David Aguiar, B.S. student; Shawn Biessel, B.S. student; Kalan Paul, B.S. student; Mia Peterburs, B.S. student; Ryan Sloger, B.S. student; Chena Hot Springs Resort, Collaborator; Pike's Waterfront Lodge, Collaborator; Tanana Chiefs Conference, Collaborator; Alaska Center for Energy and Power, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Collaborator; Effie Kokrine Early College Charter School, Collaborator TARGET AUDIENCES: Owners, managers and employees of local horticulture operations and businesses; individuals considering potential horticulture production ventures; community members throughout Alaska and in other rural areas with interest and concern for a secure, safe and affordable food supply; students at secondary and post-secondary levels including undergraduate and graduate students; initial and continuing training opportunities for the local workforce of horticulture operations. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
Panels of light emitting diodes (LEDs) designed for plant growth often provide peaks centered on red (R, 630 to 660 nm) and blue (B, 450 nm) wavelengths. The primary reason for using this type of a spectrum is the observed high rates of photosynthesis. However, plants have developed in a continuous natural light spectrum. In addition, plant pigments readily absorb the red and blue wavelength energies resulting in limited transmission through leaves and canopies. Therefore using white LEDs or adding orange, orange-red and white LEDs to traditional R/B LEDs, may be beneficial to grow high quality crops with fast development. The capacity for net photosynthetic rate (Pn) based on light and CO2 response curves was similar for butterhead lettuce 'Charles' grown under LEDs, high-pressure sodium (HPS) or metal halide (MH) lamps. Pn peaked at 16 micromol CO2/(m2 and s) at 600 micromol/(m2 and s) of light. Similar results were found for blackeyed susan (Rudbeckia hirta 'Toto') although Pn was significantly lower than in lettuce. These results suggest light intensity is more important than spectral energy distribution for Pn. Despite comparable Pn rates, plant morphology and dry matter differed. For instance, the shortest plants were observed under the R/B (R with 10% B) and tri-band (40% R, 40% orange-red, 20% B) LED panels while HPS and MH resulted in taller plants. 'Wave' petunias were studied using HPS, MH, fluorescent (T5) lamps, or three types of LED panels (R/B, white 3700 K, or a combination of 50% R, 10% orange-red, 10% orange, 20% B and 10% white). Petunias under the LEDs had more branches after 7 weeks, although the difference between greenhouse- and white LED grown plants was non-significant. Least branches were recorded for plants under HPS or MH. Few flowers and buds were observed at the end of the light treatment except under natural greenhouse light. On the other hand, all petunias produced an abundance of flowers after transplanting to hanging baskets or to a field environment. Especially the petunias grown with R/B or multi-colored LEDs, produced large number of flowers quickly and outperformed greenhouse-, HPS- and MH-grown plants. Differences diminished as the season progressed to similar plant size, branching and flowering. High tunnels have been shown to allow season extension, higher yield, improved quality as well as more consistent and predictably timed harvest. Non-traditional plastics may enhance crop productivity under northern conditions. The four plastic materials K50 Clear, K50 IR/AC. KoolLite380 (Klerks Plastic Product Manufacturing, SC) and Solatrol (British Polythene Industries, United Kingdom) were studied for a long-cane container system of the raspberry 'Tulameen'. The temperature in the K50 Clear and K50 IR/AC covered tunnels was similar although slightly warmer for K50 IR/AC during cool nights. During the warmest days, the KoolLite380 material maintained a slightly cooler environment compared to K50 Clear. Highest yield was recorded under K50 IR/AC (490 grams per single cane) and the lowest (390 grams) in the adjacent field. The Tulameen raspberries were large with individual berry sizes of 7 to 8 grams.
Publications
- Karlsson, M. 2012. Using light emitting diodes for early development of flowering plants. HortScience 47(9):S336.
- Neely, H.L., R.T. Koenig, C.A. Miles, T.C. Koenig, and M.G. Karlsson. 2010. Diurnal fluctuation in tissue nitrate concentration of field-grown leafy greens at two latitudes. HortScience 45:1815-1818.
- Karlsson, M. and J. Werner. 2009. Snap bean yield and photosynthesis during twilight extended field conditions. HortScience 44:1127. (Abstract.)
- Karlsson, M. 2009. Growing under the midnight sun. SNRAS/AFES Misc. Pub. No. MP 2009-06.
- Karlsson, M. 2009. Growing fresh vegetables: midnight sun & the earths warmth. SNRAS/AFES Misc. Pub. No. MP 2009-10.
- Karlsson, M. and J. Werner. 2009. High tunnel covering materials for Northern field production. GreenSys2009 Scientific Program P129, p. 156, Quebec City, Canada. (Abstract.)
- Karlsson, M.G. and J.W. Werner. 2009. Hydroponic greenhouse lettuce production in a subarctic location using geothermal heat and power. Acta Horticulturae 843:275-281.
- Karlsson, M.G. and J.W. Werner. 2008. Hydroponic greenhouse lettuce production in subarctic conditions using geothermal heat and power. Symposium on Soilless Culture and Hydroponics, Lima, Peru.
- Karlsson, M. and J. Werner. 2008. Early day length sensitivity in sunflower. HortScience 43:1261-1262.
- Karlsson, M. and J. Werner. 2008. Modified field environments for high latitude crop production, p. 64. 2008 International Meeting on Controlled Environment Agriculture, NCERA-101 North America Committee on Controlled Environment Technology and Use, Cocoa Beach, Florida.
- Karlsson, M., H. Rader and J. Werner. 2007. Seasonal northern snap bean production using high tunnels. HortScience 42:924.
|
Progress 01/01/11 to 12/31/11
Outputs
OUTPUTS: The high dependence on food brought in from outside makes Alaska sensitive to disruptions in supply and distribution chains. Ensuring a continuous supply of affordable high quality food is a challenge as local food production and availability are limited. Since the field season is naturally short, increasing year round availability of local produce requires use of season extension techniques, high tunnels, greenhouses and controlled environments. Although significant amounts of information are available on the use and applications of these production methods, adaptations suitable for high latitudes conditions are still limited. Energy and power costs are closely related and an additional issue for the production and availability of local food products. In addition to a large demand for heat in year round production facilities, lighting is also required. Energy efficient production and lighting technologies are needed to make the production practically and economically feasible. The advancement of light emitting diodes (LEDs) to replace current lighting equipment is promising. To best produce crops with LED lighting sources, research is needed that leads to guidelines and information dissemination that are appropriate for high latitude production conditions. Our partnerships with the local greenhouse operations at Chena Hot Springs Resort (CHSR) and Pike's Waterfront Lodge in Fairbanks, are used to reach large and diverse groups with information and education. These collaborations allow for interactions with the general public and visitors from various regions along with training and apprenticeship opportunities for students and interested individuals. Daily educational programs on greenhouse operation and management are conducted year round at CHSR. Each guided tour has a minimum of 15 participants from local populations, residents from various parts of Alaska, and visitors from all over the world. At Pike's, techniques suitable for northern greenhouse production are used and demonstrated to local and visiting individuals and groups during the summer months. Formal and self-guided tours attracted at least 20 daily visitors during June, July, August and September. Pamphlets describing the greenhouse operations at CHSR and Pike's support the educational programs and are widely distributed. The participants in these events are of variable and diverse educational, financial and demographic backgrounds and may not be reached through conventional extension and outreach activities. Various other communication and information channels are also used to disseminate and meet the need for information and training throughout the state. Presentations are frequently provided at local, regional, national and international meetings, conferences and workshops on crop production in various environments including greenhouses, high tunnels and field conditions. We are continuously communicating with producers and individuals interested in pursuing greenhouse and other types of production systems. PARTICIPANTS: Meriam Karlsson, Professor of Horticulture, project manager; Yosuke Okada, M.S. student; Susan Woods, M.S. student; Cameron Willingham, B.S. student; Nina Schwinghammer, B.A. student; Chena Hot Springs Resort, Collaborator; Pike's Waterfront Lodge, Collaborator TARGET AUDIENCES: Owners, managers and employees of local horticulture operations and businesses; individuals considering potential horticulture production ventures; community members throughout Alaska and in other rural area with interest and concern for a secure, safe and affordable food supply; students at secondary and post-secondary levels including undergraduate and graduate students; initial and continuing training opportunities for the local workforce of horticulture operations. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
Anticipations of increased energy efficiency, non-traditional spatial lamp configurations and dimensions, customized spectral distributions, long life expectancy, and reduced cost for disposal of bulbs and fixtures, promote interest and excitement for using LEDs in greenhouse and controlled environment production applications. Growth in response to a narrow LED spectrum may also result in crops of distinct advantageous morphologies and qualities. 'Wave Pink Spreading' and 'Wave Purple Improved Spreading' petunias were studied using high-pressure sodium (HPS), metal halide (MH), or fluorescent (T5) lamps. Three types of LED panels were also used and consisted of red supplemented with 10 % blue LEDs (R/B LEDs), white LEDs (3700 K), or a combination (multi-LEDs) of 50 % red (660 nm), 10 % orange-red (635 nm), 10 % orange (600 nm), 20 % blue (450 nm) and 10 % white (3700 K) LEDs. Petunia plugs were transplanted into 10-cm containers and grown for 34 days in the various light treatments. Sets of plants were also grown in natural greenhouse light. The air temperature was maintained at 20oC and the photoperiod was 16 hours at 150 micromol/(m2 and s). Data were recorded 34 days later. Subsequently, the plants were cut back and planted in a field environment or in hanging baskets (25 cm diameter). At the end of the 7-week period, the petunias had different morphology under the various light sources. Plants under the LEDs had more branches longer than 25 cm, although the difference between greenhouse- and white LED grown plants was non-significant. The least number of branches for both cultivars, was recorded for plants under HPS or MH. In the greenhouse environment, plants of either cultivar had on average 10 flowering branches. Few flowers and buds were observed at the end of the light treatment except for petunias grown under natural light in the greenhouse. Practically no flowers developed under the R/B- and multi-LEDs while a few flowers were recorded for the petunias under HPS and MH. On the other hand, all petunias produced an abundance of flowers after transplanting to hanging baskets or to a field environment. Especially the petunias grown with R/B or multi-colored LEDs, filled in and produced large number of flowers quickly and outperformed greenhouse-, HPS- and MH-grown plants. Differences diminished as the season progressed to similar plant size, branching and flowering independent of the initial lighting treatment. Strawberry plants of 'Aromas', 'Fern' and 'Tribute' were planted in 10-cm pots and immediately prior to field planting, grown in a natural greenhouse or R/B LED environment for 10 days. Attention to handling, light and growing conditions of strawberry transplants appears essential, as the greenhouse grown plants consistently produced higher yields. During the months of August and September, the yield for 'Aromas' was 280 grams per plant compared to 230 grams for the LED plants. For 'Fern', the difference was 460 grams for greenhouse grown plants versus 255 grams for LED plants. LED grown plants of 'Tribute' produced 285 grams of strawberries while greenhouse grown plants averaged 410 grams.
Publications
- Calhoun, K. and M. Karlsson. 2011. Growing apples in interior Alaska, suitable varieties for cold climates. Cooperative Extension Service, Univ. of Alaska Fairbanks, HGA-00043.
- Werner, J., Y. Okada and M. Karlsson. 2011. Using light emitting diodes in high latitude greenhouse production. Acta Horticulturae 907:287-290.
- Karlsson, M. and J. Werner. 2011. High tunnel covering materials for northern field production. Acta Horticulturae 893:1333-1339.
- Karlsson, M. 2010. Opportunities using light emitting diodes to produce high quality crops. HortScience 46(9):S238. (Abstract)
- Woods, S.A. 2011. Thermal conductivity on soil and soil-surface atmospheric temperatures and horticultural plant production. M.S. Thesis.
|
Progress 01/01/10 to 12/31/10
Outputs
OUTPUTS: The naturally short field seasons create needs for season extension techniques and knowledge for controlled environment production. Concerns for disruptions in affordable high quality produce supplies further amplify the need for developing local production systems. Various communication and information channels are used to disseminate and meet the need for information and training throughout the state. Presentations are frequently provided at local, regional, national and international meetings, conferences and workshops on crop production in various environments including greenhouses, high tunnels and field conditions. We are continuously communicating with producers and individuals interested in pursuing greenhouse and other types of production systems. Training opportunities in agriculture topics are regularly offered and presented to students at secondary and post-secondary levels. We participated in the annual greenhouse conference with presentations and posters on using light emitting diodes and temporary shelters for crop production such as high tunnels, hoop houses and retractable roof structures. Supplemental lighting is an ongoing controlled environment expense. More energy efficient lighting technologies will have large impacts on the economics of operating local greenhouses. Other examples of events used for information transfer are Fairbanks sustainable agriculture conference with 150 participants, the energy fair at Chena Hot Springs Resort (CHSR) attracting 2,000 attendants, and the Tanana Valley Fair with attendance of 70,000. These types of gatherings attract people of variable and diverse educational, financial and demographic backgrounds who may not be reached through conventional extension and outreach activities. Our partnerships with the local greenhouse operations at CHSR and Pike's Waterfront Lodge in Fairbanks, are additional methods for reaching large and diverse groups. These collaborations allow for interactions with the general public and visitors from various regions along with training and apprenticeship opportunities for students and interested individuals. Daily educational programs on greenhouse operation and management are conducted year round at CHSR. Each guided tour has a minimum of 15 participants from local populations, residents from various parts of Alaska, and visitors from all over the world. At Pike's, techniques suitable for northern greenhouse production are used and demonstrated to local and visiting individuals and groups during the summer months. Formal and self-guided tours attract at least 50 daily visitors during June, July, August and September. In addition to running Pike's greenhouse and managing the grounds, high school- and college students provide daily educational programs and answer questions related to greenhouse production, Alaska agriculture and their summer employment experience. Pamphlets describing the greenhouse operations at CHSR and Pike's support the educational programs and are widely distributed. PARTICIPANTS: Meriam Karlsson, Professor of Horticulture, project manager; Jeff Werner, Research Professional; Yosuke Okada, M.S. student; James Ward, B.S. student; Cameron Willingham, B.S. student; Ryan Olsen, B.A. student, Jace Bures, B.S. student, Jeff Bue, B.S. student; Taylor Beard, B.S. student; Nina Schwinghammer, B.A. student; Chena Hot Springs Resort, Collaborator; Pike's Waterfront Lodge, Collaborator, Tanana Chiefs Conference, Collaborator, Alaska Center for Energy and Power, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Collaborator TARGET AUDIENCES: Owners, managers and employees of local horticulture operations and businesses; individuals considering potential horticulture production ventures; community members throughout Alaska and in other rural area with interest and concern for a secure, safe and affordable food supply; students at secondary and post-secondary levels including undergraduate and graduate students; initial and continuing training opportunities for the local workforce of horticulture operations. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
Light emitting diodes (LEDs) are considered for complementing and replacing current supplemental lighting equipment for greenhouse production. LEDs, compared to traditional high intensity discharge lamps, are characterized to use less electrical energy, provide customized spectral energy distributions, have extended operational high output time frames and reduced heat release into the growing environment. Research is needed however, on efficient LED wavelength compositions, design configurations and photosynthetic photon flux (PPF). High pressure sodium (HPS) lamps (1,000W), metal halide (MH) lamps (1,000W), T5 fluorescent tubes and three types of LED panels (300W) were evaluated for crop growth. The R/B panel consisted of red LEDs (peak emission at 665 nm) supplemented with 10 percent blue LEDs (456 nm), the tri-band panel used 40 percent red LEDs (660 nm), 40 percent orange-red LEDs (630 nm) and 20 percent blue LEDs (460 nm), and the white LED panel provided peak emissions at 458 nm and a curve distribution around 560 nm. PPF (400 to 700 nm) at plant height was 150 micromol/(m2 and s) for all lamp types. Blackeyed susan (Rudbeckia hirta 'Toto') and butterhead lettuce 'Charles' were grown in 10 cm containers. The net photosynthetic rate (Pn) response to PPF was measured at 400 ppm CO2 in 9 steps from 1,800 to 0 micromol/(m2 and s). To determine Pn at increasing intercellular CO2 concentrations, PPF was kept at 150 micromol/(m2 and s). The Pn capacity of lettuce, based on light and CO2 response curves, appear similar independent of the light source. Pn reached 16 micromol CO2/(m2 and s) at approximately 600 micromol/(m2 and s) and remained unchanged at higher PPF. Under 150 micromol/(m2 and s), Pn approached 20 micromol CO2/(m2 and s) at intercellular CO2 of 600 or higher ppm. Similar results were found for R. hirta although Pn was significantly lower than in lettuce. Similarities under the various lamps suggest PPF is more important than the spectral energy distribution for overall rate of photosynthesis. Despite comparable Pn rates and capacities for plants grown under the various light qualities, plant morphology and dry matter differed. Lettuce grown under MH for four weeks had most above ground plant dry weight at 3.5 plus/minus 0.35 g followed by lettuce in fluorescent light (2.9 plus/minus 0.34 g). The R/B and tri-band LED panels resulted in similar size lettuce of 2.3 plus/minus 0.29 g while HPS and white LEDs supported plant dry weights of 1.7 plus/minus 0.27 g. For blackeyed susan, plants under HPS produced the largest amount of above ground dry weight (2.4 plus/minus 0.43 g). The fluorescent tubes and white LEDs resulted in similar size plants of 1.6 plus/minus 0.25 g dry weight. R/B LEDs, tri-band LEDs and MH lamps produced intermediate sized plants. The least amount of dry weight partitioned to stems was observed under the R/B and tri-band LEDs (12 percent) while HPS (19 percent) and MH (16 percent) lamps resulted in taller plants with larger percent stem dry weight. Additional studies are necessary to fully understand the impact of limited LED spectra on crop growth.
Publications
- Neely, H.L., R.T. Koenig, C.A. Miles, T.C. Koenig and M.G. Karlsson. 2010. Diurnal fluctuation in tissue nitrate concentration of field-grown leafy greens at two latitudes HortScience 45:1815-1818.
- Werner, J., Y. Okada and M. Karlsson. 2011. Using light emitting diodes in high latitude greenhouse production. Acta Horticulturae (in press).
- Karlsson, M. and J. Werner. 2011. High tunnel covering materials for northern field production. Acta Horticulturae (in press).
- Karlsson, M. and J. Werner. 2010. Light emitting diodes for greenhouse production. HortScience 45(8):S274. (Abstract.)
- Beard, T.L.M. 2010. Impact of arsenic contaminated irrigation water on accumulation in tomatoes. Senior thesis Natural Resources Management, SNRAS, University of Alaska Fairbanks.
- Bue, J. 2010. Arsenic absorption in vegetables. UAF Campus Research Day. Center for Research Services, University of Alaska Fairbanks. (Abstract.)
- Bures, J.W. 2010. Reducing the Alaska summer day length to increase growth and yield of tomatoes. Senior thesis Natural Resources Management, SNRAS, University of Alaska Fairbanks.
- Ward, J.R. 2010. Economic considerations for commercial greenhouse production during interior Alaskan winters. Senior thesis Natural Resources Management, SNRAS, University of Alaska Fairbanks.
|
Progress 01/01/09 to 12/31/09
Outputs
OUTPUTS: The demand for information on expanding and improving local production systems is increasing with concerns for a continuous and affordable high quality food supply. Knowledge developed in this project is applicable to local climates and is disseminated through various channels. Communications on greenhouse opportunities in relation to local energy and food supplies are ongoing with individuals and groups in various state locations including Anchor Point, Anchorage, Aniak, Barrow, Bethel, Chena Hot Springs, Cordova Delta Junction, Dillingham, Eagle River, Fairbanks, Ft. Yukon, Galena, Glenallen, Haines, Healy, Homer, Iguigig, Juneau, Kaltag, Kantishna, Kenai, Kenny Lake, Ketchikan, Kodiak, North Pole, Nulato, Manley Hot Springs, Nome, Palmer, Pt. Hope, Seward, Sitka, Skagway, Soldotna, Talkeetna, Tok, Valdez and Wasilla. Research findings are also presented to the 70,000 attending the Tanana Valley Fair. Through partnerships with local greenhouses at Chena Hot Springs Resort (CHSR) and Pike's in Fairbanks, training and apprenticeship opportunities are available for students and interested individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Current production approach, environmental controls, scheduling and management of the CHSR and other production greenhouses are continuously evaluated and adjusted as information becomes available. Programs and training opportunities in greenhouse and agriculture topics are regularly offered and presented to students at secondary and post-secondary levels. Presentations are frequently provided at local, regional, national and international meetings, conferences and workshops on crop production in various environments such as greenhouses, high tunnels and field conditions. For example in 2009, presentations were given on local production in relation to a sustainable food and energy system at a geothermal conference with 200 attendees and at the Fairbanks sustainable agriculture conference with 150 participants. These types of conferences are designed to offer information to professionals as well as the general public. Daily educational programs on greenhouse operation and management are conducted year round at CHSR. Each guided tour has a minimum of 15 participants from local populations, residents from various parts of Alaska, and visitors from all over the world. The August 2009 Energy Fair at CHSR was attended by 2,000 people of diverse educational, financial and demographic backgrounds. Most attendees viewed the greenhouse production during educational tours throughout the day. At Pike's, techniques suitable for northern greenhouse production are used and demonstrated to local and visiting individuals and groups during the summer months. Formal and self-guided tours attract at least 50 daily visitors during June, July, August and September. In addition to running Pike's greenhouse and managing the grounds, high school- and college students provide daily educational programs and answer questions related to greenhouse production, Alaska agriculture and their summer employment experience. Pamphlets describing the greenhouse operations at CHSR and Pike's support the educational programs and are widely distributed. PARTICIPANTS: Meriam Karlsson, Professor of Horticulture, project manager; Jeff Werner, Research Professional; Jeffrey Johnson, Research Associate; Yosuke Okada, M.S. student; James Ward, B.S. student; Patrick Sanders, B.S. student; Justin Hogrefe, B.S. student; Chena Hot Springs Resort, Collaborator; Pike's Waterfront Lodge, Collaborator, Tanana Chiefs Conference, Collaborator, Alaska Center for Energy and Power, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Collaborator TARGET AUDIENCES: Owners, managers and employees of local horticulture operations and businesses; individuals considering potential horticulture production ventures; community members throughout Alaska and other rural area with interest and concern for a secure, safe and affordable food supply, students at secondary and post-secondary levels including undergraduate and graduate students; initial and continuing training opportunities for the local workforce of horticulture operations. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
Crops have been suggested to photosynthesis continuously under naturally extended days. Net photosynthetic rates (Pn) of single bean or sweet corn leaves were measured intermittently for 24 hours at 400 ppm CO2 during July 6 and 7. Sunset on July 7 is at 00:23 with sunrise at 03:29 Alaska daylight saving time and the sun remains above civil twilight limits throughout the 24 hours. The average temperature for the 24 hour cycle measured one meter above ground was 18.7 plus/minus 5.8oC with a high of 28oC at 15:00 and a low of 10.5oC at 05:00. Photosynthetic active radiation (PAR, 400 to 700 nm) averaged 433 micromol/(m2 and s) for the 24-hour cycle. Pn generally correlated to available PAR. Peak Pn was 10.6 micromol CO2/(m2 and s) at 13:55 for bean 'Provider'. In comparison, peak Pn was 28.3 micromol CO2/(m2 and s) at 13:35 for corn 'Yellow Supersweet'. Pn dropped to zero or less from approximately 23:00 to 06:00 in both beans and corn with ambient PAR levels varying from 2 to 30 micromol/(m2 and s). The results suggest PAR is often sufficient to drive positive Pn for 17 to 18 daily hours during Fairbanks summer days. Many of these hours are accompanied with moderate temperatures to support optimal crop growth and maturation. The high demand for greenhouse lighting in northern areas supports a need to identify efficient equipment. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) show promise for high energy efficiency, long life expectancy, limited heat generation and opportunities to customize the light quality. For efficient Pn, LED panels for crop growth are often designed to provide blue and red portions of the spectrum. Physiological processes in addition to Pn are however, frequently dependent on a wider continuous spectrum. Research is needed to determine the appropriate LED wavelength composition, panel configurations and PAR for efficient and proper crop development. LED panels (150W, 300W, 600W) with red LEDs (peak emission at 665 nm) supplemented with 10 percent blue LEDs (peak emission at 456 nm) were compared to high pressure sodium (HPS) and metal halide (MH) lamps in a controlled environment production area. Black-eyed susan (Rudbeckia hirta 'Toto') was grown 100 cm below the light sources. PAR varied from 65 plus/minus 10 micromol/(m2 and s) under the 150W LED panel to 130 plus/minus 15 under the 300W panel, and 300 plus/minus 20 micromol/(m2 and s) under the 600W LED array. In comparison, PAR was 200 plus/minus 20 micromol/(m2 and s) in the growing environments of HPS and MH. Pn was measured on exposed single leaves of mature flowering plants at 400 ppm CO2. As expected, Pn was higher under HPS at 2.5 micromol CO2/(m2 and s) compared to 1.2 micromol CO2/(m2 and s) under the 300W LED panels. Despite the differences in PAR and Pn, the development of the plants remained similar. After 21 days, at least 50 percent of the plants had developed visible flower buds (2 mm) under HPS, MH, and the 300W LEDs. All plants in the 600W LED environment had visible buds at 21 days. Early development and growth of black-eyed susan in respect to height and leaf number were comparable to HPS when the LEDs provided a minimum of 300 micromol/(m2 and s).
Publications
- Karlsson, M. and J. Werner. 2010. High tunnel covering materials for northern field production. Acta Horticulturae (in press).
- Werner, J., Y. Okada and M. Karlsson. 2009. Using light emitting diodes in high latitude greenhouse production. International Symposium on Light in Horticulture. Scientific Program 18P12, p. 115, Tsukuba, Japan. (Abstract.)
- Karlsson, M. and J. Werner. 2009. Snap bean yield and photosynthesis during twilight extended field conditions. HortScience 44:1127. (Abstract.)
- Karlsson, M. 2009. Growing under the midnight sun. SNRAS/AFES Misc. Pub. No. MP 2009-06.
- Karlsson, M. 2009. Growing fresh vegetables: midnight sun and the earth's warmth. SNRAS/AFES Misc. Pub. No. MP 2009-10.
- Karlsson, M. and J. Werner. 2009. High tunnel covering materials for Northern field production. International Symposium on High Technology for Greenhouse Systems. GreenSys2009 Scientific Program P129, p. 156, Quebec City, Canada. (Abstract.)
- Werner, J., Y. Okada and M. Karlsson. 2010. Using light emitting diodes in high latitude greenhouse production. Acta Horticulturae (in press).
|
Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Six sunflower selections in the ProCut (PC) series along with Sunbright (SB) and Sunright Supreme (SBS) were evaluated for field cut flower production. These pollen free, day neutral cultivars were seeded in a greenhouse and transplanted into high tunnels and the adjacent field 17 days later. During the greenhouse phase, one group of each selection was covered with an opaque blackout cloth from 6 pm to 8 am to provide from germination (7 days from seeding), 10-hour days. A corresponding group was allowed to develop under natural day lengths (21 hours and 1 minute between sunrise and sunset). Although the 2008 season averaged below normal temperatures and above normal precipitation, there were only small non-significant differences in rate of development between the field and high tunnel environments. The PC series flowered at a similar time independent of short day treatment. SB and SBS on the other hand, flowered 4 to 5 weeks faster with 10 short days prior to field planting. Flowering averaged 87 days for untreated and 60 days for short day treated SB. The earliest flowering was observed 45 days after planting for SBS. PC Bicolor, Orange, Peach and Yellow Lite flowered 10 weeks after transplanting while PC Red/Lemon Bicolor flowered almost a week earlier and PC Lemon, 5 days later than the other PC cultivars. Stem length at flowering varied from 143 to 180 cm for the PC series and did not differ for plants receiving short or natural day lengths. The flower diameter averaged 23 cm except for ProCut Yellow Lite at 28 cm. Plant height and leaf number decreased with the faster flowering for SB and SBS. However, flower size only decreased for SBS with early short days. Space in high tunnels is expected most advantageous for warm season crops. Therefore in 2008, bulb onions and potatoes were only grown under field conditions. The productivity among the five yellow, one white and two red cultivars varied significantly but remained high despite a season of above average precipitation and below average temperatures. The highest yield of yellow onions was recorded for Ailsa Craig at 11.5 kg/m2. Walla Walla also had a good harvest per m2 of 8.6 kg followed by Yellow Sweet Spanish (6.7 kg) and First Edition (3.4 kg). Copra was the least productive yellow onion at 1.8 kg/m2. The onion White Spanish Ringmaster produced 7.1 kg/m2. The two included red onions produced 7.0 kg (Red Burgermaster) and 2.5 kg/m2 (Red Zeppelin). Twelve potato cultivars adapted to northern conditions were grown in replicated field trials. French Fingerling had the highest yield at 13.3 kg/m2. Cal White followed closely at 12.7 kg/m2. In addition, Shepody and All Blue produced more than 10 kg/m2. The lowest yields were recorded for Nordonna (5.7 kg/m2) and Swedish Peanut (7.9 kg/m2). The largest tubers were produced by Cal White (183 grams) followed by Shepody (174 g), Yukon Gold (170 g) and Caribe (156 g). All Red produced potatoes of 139 g. Tubers of both Magic Molly and Yellow Finn averaged 112 g. Swedish Peanut had 42 g tubers and German Butterball 73 g. The tuber size of French Fingerling was 83 g, Nordonna, 96 g, and All Blue, 97 g. PARTICIPANTS: PARTICIPANTS: Meriam Karlsson, Professor of Horticulture, project manager; Jeff Werner, Research Professional; James Ward, B.S. student; Andrew Winkelman, B.S. student; Patrick Terra, B.S. student; Patrick Sanders, B.S. student; Justin Hogrefe, B.S. student; Melissa Gagnon, B.S. student; Kate Fournier, B.S. student; Chena Hot Springs Resort, Collaborator, Pike's Waterfront Lodge, Collaborator TARGET AUDIENCES: Owners, managers and employees of local greenhouse and other horticulture operations and businesses; individuals considering potential horticulture production ventures; students at secondary and post-secondary levels including undergraduate and graduate students; initial and continuing training opportunities for the local workforce of horticulture operations. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
Increased consumer awareness for a safe and secure food supply has resulted in more opportunities to produce crops for local markets. Concerns for the wise use and management of resources and community sustainability further substantiate the development of farmers markets, direct retailing and other local outlets for agricultural products. In addition to supporting local economies, these direct markets require less excessive input from the producer for delivery, packaging and transportation. To meet regional demands for high quality floral crops and nutritious berries and vegetables, dependable techniques to improve and extend the field season are essential. In addition for continuous year round production, greenhouses and other controlled environments are necessary. Managing greenhouse environments for optimal production in relation to natural climatic changes over the year is challenging and requires continuous adjustments in temperature set points, ventilations strategies, and the use, timing and type of supplemental lighting. Efforts to employ alternative energy systems for heating and power generation in communities throughout Alaska require the inclusion of production greenhouses for a comprehensive approach to sustainability. Information from this project is quickly disseminated as research is conducted, field tested and implemented in commercial production through the partnership with Chena Hot Springs Resort. Opportunity to view practical applications stimulates interest and encourages Alaskans to develop greenhouse projects for production and education. Tours with participants from the local population, visitors from various parts of Alaska, and tourists from all over the world, are given daily at Chena Hot Springs Resort. Suitable techniques for northern production are also demonstrated in the greenhouse at Pike's Waterfront Lodge, a local hotel and restaurant establishment. Open to the public, daily formal and self-guided tours illustrate commonly used techniques to local and visiting individuals and groups during the summer months. A minimum of 30 visitors toured Pike's greenhouse every day through the months of June, July, August and September.
Publications
- Karlsson, M. and J. Werner. 2009. Hydroponic greenhouse lettuce production in subarctic conditions using geothermal heat and power. Acta Horticulturae (in press).
- Karlsson, M. and J. Werner. 2008. Early day length sensitivity in sunflower. HortScience 43:1261-1262.
|
Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07
Outputs
OUTPUTS: High tunnels have been shown to allow season extension, higher yields, improved quality as well as more consistent and predictably timed harvest. Non-traditional plastics may enhance crop productivity in high tunnels under northern conditions with naturally extreme day lengths. Therefore, specialty plastics were evaluated in relation to field and traditionally recommended cover materials. Four high tunnel structures were used to test the impact and use of plastic covering materials for northern field crop production. The selected covering materials are commercially available and vary in light absorption and transmission characteristics. The included plastic materials for covering the 7.3 m (length) by 3.7 m (width) structures were K50 Clear, K50 IR/AC. KoolLite380 (Klerks Plastic Product Manufacturing, Inc., Richburg, South Carolina) and Solatrol (Visqueen GCF 925C9, British Polythene Industries PLC, Greenock, United Kingdom). The K50 Clear material is a 6 mil
ethylvinylacetate (EVA) plastic regularly used in commercial high tunnels and plastic greenhouses. The K50 IR/AC plastic is expected to hold infra-red wavelengths and conserve energy during cold nights. The KoolLite380 blocks ultra-violet radiation and selectively filters infra-red wavelengths to maintain a cooler environment during hot days. The Solatrol material selectively absorbs far-red wavelengths and alters the red to far-red ratio in the growing environment. The daily temperature and light profiles were identified for the various plastics and compared to adjacent field conditions. K50 Clear and K50 IR/AC blocked radiation below 360 nm, Solatrol below 390 nm and KoolLite380 as advertised, below 380 nm. In addition, KoolLite380 shifted the spectrum with relatively more radiation from 550 nm into the infrared wavelengths compared to field conditions. The temperature pattern in the K50 Clear and K50 IR/AC covered tunnels were similar although there was a trend for slightly warmer
temperatures during cool nights under K50 IR/AC. During the warmest days, the KoolLite380 material maintained a slightly lower temperature compared to K50 Clear. To evaluate crop response in the various environments, raspberries were grown using the earlier developed container system for producing fresh market raspberries. Long cane Tulameen, a well adapted cultivar for containers, were planted using 11.3 liter large containers in June for immediate first season berry production. Excellent pollination and growth resulted in high yields of top quality fresh market raspberries in all environments including the field. More than 100 top quality marketable raspberries were harvested from each single cane plant. The highest yield was recorded in the high tunnel covered with K50 IR/AC and the least number of raspberries were harvested on plants grown in the adjacent field. A large portion of the Tulameen raspberries were large with an individual size of 7 to 8 grams. In comparison, field
produced Boyne or Latham raspberries were 2 to 3 grams in size. In addition, Brix values of 11 to 12 percent confirmed the superb taste of Tulameen. The taste of Boyne and Latham was substandard to Tulameen for fresh market use.
PARTICIPANTS: Meriam Karlsson, Professor of Horticulture, project manager; Jeff Werner, Research Professional; Heidi Rader, M.S. student; Terry Marsh, Research Associate; Katherine Albers, Research Associate; Shawn Biessel, B.S. Student; Yosuke Okada, B.S. Student; Ryan Sloger, B.S. Student; William Kornmuller, B.S. Student; Chena Hot Springs Resort, Collaborator, Pike's Waterfront Lodge, Collaborator
TARGET AUDIENCES: Owners, managers and employees of local greenhouse and other horticulture operations and businesses; individuals considering potential horticulture production ventures; students at secondary and post-secondary levels including undergraduate and graduate students; initial and continuing training opportunities for the local workforce of horticulture operations.
Impacts
Locally used high tunnels are usually covered with traditional polyethylene plastic materials such as K50 Clear or Tufflite IV. The specialty plastic K50 IR/AC was developed to reduce heat loss and keep more even temperatures throughout the 24-hour day. Under production conditions where season extension is of great consequence, K50 IR/AC is therefore a better choice for local producers than traditional polyethylene plastic materials to maintain higher night temperatures as day length shortens and temperatures cool toward the end of the season.
Publications
- Karlsson, M., Rader, H. and Werner, J. 2007. Seasonal northern snap bean production using high tunnels. HortScience 42:924.
|
|