Progress 03/01/07 to 09/30/12
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Weather conditions in Oklahoma in the summer of 2011 were unprecedented. The hottest month ever recorded during any month for any state in the USA occurred in Oklahoma in July of this year. Twenty seven days during July and August were 104 degrees F or higher, while eight days were 108 or higher. Only 1.28 inches of rain occurred during these two months. Under these extreme conditions, most vegetable crops produced little or not yield. An organic fertilizer study was planted with sweet corn (Golden Bantam cv.) Seven different substances were used at different combinations and rates to obtain ten different organic fertilizer treatments. Organic fertilizers used included cotton seed meal, bone meal, potash, corn gluten, rock phosphate, alfalfa meal, and poultry litter. With one exception, all of the treatment combinations contained 100 lbs/acre nitrogen (N), 50 lbs/acre P2O5, and 200 lbs/acre K2O. Poultry litter was the one treatment exception: it contained 100 lbs/acre of N, P2O5 and K2O. No yields were obtained due to the extreme heat. In another study, eight cover crops (hairy vetch, crimson clover, yellow clover, arrowleaf clover, rye, wheat, oats, ryegrass) were sown in the fall of 2010. Cover crops were half legumes and half grasses (non-legumes). The crops were allowed to over-winter. In the spring, each plot was divided into two equal portions. The entire area of each plot was tilled, as opposed to the previous year in which only half of each plot was tilled. The tilled portions of each plot were then planted with two crops (sweet corn and southern peas). No yields were obtained. In another study, two cultivars of cherry tomatoes were grown organically in either plastic covered hoop houses or uncovered bare soil plots. This study was started earlier in the year, before extreme weather conditions developed. Tomatoes grown in the uncovered plots yielded substantially higher than did the covered plots. Uncovered plots yielded 11.5 tons per acre, while covered plots yielded 7.9 tons per acre. These results were contradictory to results of previous years, and may have been caused by the unusually high temperatures this summer. In this study, Baxter Early Bush tomatoes yielded similarly to Washington Cherry tomatoes (9.8 vs 9.7 tons per acre, respectively). All tomatoes in the test were fertilized with poultry litter, at approximately two tons per acre. However, half of the plots received all of the litter pre-plant, while the remainder of the test received the litter in a split application, approximately six weeks apart. There were no significant differences in yield of tomatoes between the two treatment protocols. An adjacent planting of full-sized tomatoes (Solar-Set) did not produce any yield. PARTICIPANTS: Warren Roberts, Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Merritt Taylor, Department of Agricultural Economics, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Jim Shrefler, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Wyatt O'Hern, Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Tony Goodson, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Chris Kirby, Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Oklahoma City, Ok. Steve Upson, The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Ardmore, Ok. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audiences are growers, agribusiness personnel, OCES personnel, representatives of other state and private agencies and foundations, public school employees, and consumers. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
There is increasing interest in organic food production in the U.S., but there is little information to support growers of organic produce in Oklahoma. For the past seven years, research with organic vegetables has been conducted at the WWAREC. Results of this research are being presented to interested personnel in the state and region. An organic field day at the WWAREC attracted approximately 100 people who were interested in organic vegetable production. Weather conditions are becoming increasingly varied and extreme, and there is much interest in production methods that are conducive to vegetable production under all types of adverse weather conditions. Studies are being conducted concerning organic production of small, bite-sized tomatoes that are well suited for fresh consumption in schools. Results of these studies are being presented to farmers, business personnel, and other agencies throughout Oklahoma. These studies will enable producers to select cultivars, disease control mechanisms, and fertility regimes of vegetables that are well suited to Oklahoma environmental conditions for both organic and conventional protocols. Results of this research will improve the feasibility of local food production systems, will improve the nutrition of local school diets, and will improve the economy of rural communities. This will insure that a safe and nutritious food supply can be produced using economical and environmentally safe methods.
Publications
- Shrefler, J. M. J. Taylor, B. W. Roberts and C. L.. Webber III. 2011. Weed Control Options for Organically-Grown Vine Crops. HortSci. 46(xxx) p. (in press).
- Taylor, Merritt, James Shrefler, Warren Roberts, "Maintaining Quality Research With Reduced Funding", Research Center Administrators Society (RCAS) Annual Conference, Southern Association of Agricultural Scientists (SAAS), Corpus Christi, Texas, February 5-9, 2011.
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Progress 10/01/10 to 09/30/11
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Weather conditions in Oklahoma in the summer of 2011 were unprecedented. The hottest month ever recorded during any month for any state in the USA occurred in Oklahoma in July of this year. Twenty seven days during July and August were 104 degrees F or higher, while eight days were 108 or higher. Only 1.28 inches of rain occurred during these two months. Under these extreme conditions, most vegetable crops produced little or not yield. An organic fertilizer study was planted with sweet corn (Golden Bantam cv.) Seven different substances were used at different combinations and rates to obtain ten different organic fertilizer treatments. Organic fertilizers used included cotton seed meal, bone meal, potash, corn gluten, rock phosphate, alfalfa meal, and poultry litter. With one exception, all of the treatment combinations contained 100 lbs/acre nitrogen (N), 50 lbs/acre P2O5, and 200 lbs/acre K2O. Poultry litter was the one treatment exception: it contained 100 lbs/acre of N, P2O5 and K2O. No yields were obtained due to the extreme heat. In another study, eight cover crops (hairy vetch, crimson clover, yellow clover, arrowleaf clover, rye, wheat, oats, ryegrass) were sown in the fall of 2010. Cover crops were half legumes and half grasses (non-legumes). The crops were allowed to over-winter. In the spring, each plot was divided into two equal portions. The entire area of each plot was tilled, as opposed to the previous year in which only half of each plot was tilled. The tilled portions of each plot were then planted with two crops (sweet corn and southern peas). No yields were obtained. In another study, two cultivars of cherry tomatoes were grown organically in either plastic covered hoop houses or uncovered bare soil plots. This study was started earlier in the year, before extreme weather conditions developed. Tomatoes grown in the uncovered plots yielded substantially higher than did the covered plots. Uncovered plots yielded 11.5 tons per acre, while covered plots yielded 7.9 tons per acre. These results were contradictory to results of previous years, and may have been caused by the unusually high temperatures this summer. In this study, Baxter Early Bush tomatoes yielded similarly to Washington Cherry tomatoes (9.8 vs 9.7 tons per acre, respectively). All tomatoes in the test were fertilized with poultry litter, at approximately two tons per acre. However, half of the plots received all of the litter pre-plant, while the remainder of the test received the litter in a split application, approximately six weeks apart. There were no significant differences in yield of tomatoes between the two treatment protocols. An adjacent planting of full-sized tomatoes (Solar-Set) did not produce any yield. PARTICIPANTS: Warren Roberts, Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Merritt Taylor, Department of Agricultural Economics, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Jim Shrefler, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Wyatt O'Hern, Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Tony Goodson, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Chris Kirby, Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Oklahoma City, Ok. Steve Upson, The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Ardmore, Ok. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audiences are growers, agribusiness personnel, OCES personnel, representatives of other state and private agencies and foundations, public school employees, and consumers. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
There is increasing interest in organic food production in the U.S., but there is little information to support growers of organic produce in Oklahoma. For the past seven years, research with organic vegetables has been conducted at the WWAREC. Results of this research are being presented to interested personnel in the state and region. An organic field day at the WWAREC attracted approximately 100 people who were interested in organic vegetable production. Weather conditions are becoming increasingly varied and extreme, and there is much interest in production methods that are conducive to vegetable production under all types of adverse weather conditions. Studies are being conducted concerning organic production of small, bite-sized tomatoes that are well suited for fresh consumption in schools. Results of these studies are being presented to farmers, business personnel, and other agencies throughout Oklahoma. These studies will enable producers to select cultivars, disease control mechanisms, and fertility regimes of vegetables that are well suited to Oklahoma environmental conditions for both organic and conventional protocols. Results of this research will improve the feasibility of local food production systems, will improve the nutrition of local school diets, and will improve the economy of rural communities. This will insure that a safe and nutritious food supply can be produced using economical and environmentally safe methods.
Publications
- Roberts, W. and W. OHern. 2011. 2010 Cover crops, southern peas, and sweet corn. In 2010 Vegetable Trial Report. MP-164. Oklahoma State University. p3.
- Roberts, W. and W. OHern. 2011. 2009 Organic Corn (Golden Bantam). In 2010 Vegetable Trial Report. MP-164. Oklahoma State University. p5.
- Roberts, W. and W. OHern. 2011. 2010 Organic Corn (Golden Bantam). In 2010 Vegetable Trial Report. MP-164. Oklahoma State University. p6.
- Roberts, W. and W. OHern. 2011. 2010 Cherry Tomato Cultivar Trial. In 2010 Vegetable Trial Report. MP-164. Oklahoma State University. p16.
- Roberts, W. and W. OHern. 2011. 2010 Organic Cherry Tomato Cultivar Trial and Cover Evaluation. In 2010 Vegetable Trial Report. MP-164. Oklahoma State University. p17.
- Shrefler, J., M. Taylor, W. Roberts and B. Bruton. 2010. Fungicides for organic melon production in Oklahoma: an initial assessment. Cucurbitaceae 2002. pp 252-258.
- Shrefler, J. M. J. Taylor, B. W. Roberts and C. L.. Webber III. 2011. Weed Control Options for Organically-Grown Vine Crops. HortSci. 46(xxx) p. (in press).
- Taylor, Merritt, James Shrefler, Warren Roberts, "Maintaining Quality Research With Reduced Funding", Research Center Administrators Society (RCAS) Annual Conference, Southern Association of Agricultural Scientists (SAAS), Corpus Christi, Texas, February 5-9, 2011.
- Shrefler, J. T. Goodson, W. Roberts and M. Taylor. 2011. Strawberry establishment and varieties for hoop house production. Proc. 30th Ann. Hort. Industry Show. Fort Smith, AR.
- Shrefler, J., C. Webber, W. Roberts and M. Taylor. 2011. Comparison of weed management options for organic muskmelon production. Proc. 30th Ann. Hort. Industry Show. Fort Smith, AR.
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Progress 10/01/09 to 09/30/10
Outputs
OUTPUTS: An organic fertilizer study was conducted with sweet corn (Golden Bantam cv.) Seven different substances were used at different combinations and rates to obtain ten different organic fertilizer treatments. Organic fertilizers used included cotton seed meal, bone meal, potash, corn gluten, rock phosphate, alfalfa meal, and poultry litter. With one exception, all of the treatment combinations contained 100 lbs/acre nitrogen (N), 50 lbs/acre P2O5, and 200 lbs/acre K2O. Poultry litter was the one treatment exception: it contained 100 lbs/acre of N, P2O5 and K2O. The best yield combination included corn gluten, bone meal, and potash. The next best treatment included alfalfa meal, corn gluten, and potash. Poultry litter alone was the lowest yielding treatment. In another study, ten cultivars of small bite-sized tomatoes were trellised and either pruned or not pruned. Pruning with indeterminant cultivars consisted of all lateral shoots being removed from the main stem. Pruning with determinant cultivars consisted of the removal of all lateral shoots that occurred below the first fruit cluster, while lateral shoots that grew above the first fruit cluster were not pruned. The indeterminants yielded only 56% of the determinant cultivars. In general, the pruned cultivars yielded less than did the non-pruned cultivars. Only three of ten cultivars responded positively to pruning. With the indeterminant cultivars, the pruned plants yielded only 48 percent of the determinant cultivars. With the determinant cultivars, five of eight cultivars had higher yields when not pruned. In another study, eight cover crops (hairy vetch, crimson clover, yellow clover, arrowleaf clover, rye, wheat, oats, ryegrass) were sown in the fall of 2009. Cover crops were half legumes and half grasses (non-legumes). The crops were allowed to over-winter. In the spring, each plot was divided into two equal portions. The entire area of each plot was tilled, as opposed to the previous year in which only half of each plot was tilled. The tilled portions of each plot were then planted with three crops (sweet corn, sweet potatoes, and southern peas). Sweet potatoes were not harvested due to insufficient plant survival. With southern peas, yields following grass cover crops were as good as or better than yields following legume cover crops. The highest yields were obtained when southern peas followed oats or wheat cover crops. With sweet corn, legume cover crops did improve yield over the grass cover crops. The highest yield was obtained when sweet corn followed arrowleaf clover as a cover crop. In general, the results of this year's study supported most conclusions from the previous year's study. In another study, two cultivars of cherry tomatoes were grown organically in either plastic covered hoop houses or uncovered bare soil plots. Tomatoes grown in the uncovered plots yielded only 58 percent as much as the tomatoes grown inside the hoop houses. The Washington Cherry cultivar yielded only 54 percent as much as the Baxter's Early Bush Cultivar. PARTICIPANTS: Warren Roberts, Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Merritt Taylor, Department of Agricultural Economics, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Jim Shrefler, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Wyatt O'Hern, Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Tony Goodson, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Chris Kirby, Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Oklahoma City, Ok. Steve Upson, The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Ardmore, Ok. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audiences are growers, agribusiness personnel, OCES personnel, representatives of other state and private agencies and foundations, public school employees, and consumers. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
Two field days were held at the Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center (WWAREC) for training of growers, agribusiness personnel, and consumers. One field day concentrated solely on organic agriculture, while the second field day included organic as well as conventional production methods. Approximately 1300 people attended the two field days. In addition, a training session for Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service Personnel, growers, agri-business personnel, and representatives from other state agencies was held for approximately 150 people in Oklahoma City, Ok. Additional training was provided to approximately 50 non-traditional adult students in a market gardening class in Enid, Ok, and also for approximately 10 people in a similar class in Antlers, Ok. In addition, training was provided to approximately 90 growers and agribusiness personnel at a multi-state growers conference in Chickasha, Ok, and also to approximately 100 people at a multi-state Horticulture Industries Show in Tulsa, Ok. There is increasing interest in organic food production in the U.S., but there is little information to support growers of organic produce in Oklahoma. For the past six years, research with organic vegetables has been conducted at the WWAREC. Results of this research are being presented to interested personnel in the state and region. An organic field day at the WWAREC attracted approximately 100 people who were interested in organic vegetable production. There is also little information to support growers who wish to provide fresh, locally grown, sustainable fruit and vegetable products for direct sales of farm-to-school vegetables. Studies are being conducted concerning organic production of small, bite-sized tomatoes that are well suited for fresh consumption in schools. Results of these studies are being presented to farmers, business personnel, and other agencies throughout Oklahoma. These studies will enable producers to select cultivars, disease control mechanisms, and fertility regimes of vegetables that are well suited to Oklahoma environmental conditions for both organic and conventional protocols. Results of this research will improve the feasibility of local food production systems, will improve the nutrition of local school diets, and will improve the economy of rural communities. This will insure that a safe and nutritious food supply can be produced using economical and environmentally safe methods.
Publications
- Webber, C.L. III and Roberts, B.W. 2009. Supplemental Fertilizers for Organic Greenhouse Soil Media. Proceedings of the Oklahoma Academy of Science. Ada, OK. Nov. 6, 2009. Vol. 89. p. 94- 95.
- Shrefler, J., W. Roberts, and M. Taylor. 2010. The Pepper Colorful, Frightening and Savored the World Over. Proc. 29th Ann. Hort. Ind. Show. Pp 140-141.
- Roberts, W., J. Shrefler, M. Taylor, and C. Webber. 2010. Cover Crops and Vegetable Rotations. Proc. 29th Ann. Hort. Ind. Show. Pp. 148-151.
- Zhang, H., L. Brandenberger, and W. Roberts. 2010. Soil Testing and Fertilizer Recommendations for Vegetable Crops. Proc. 29th Ann. Hort. Ind. Show. Pp 152-155.
- Webber, C., W. Roberts, M. Taylor, and J. Shrefler. 2010. Micronized Compost as an Organic Amendment for Soil Media. Proc. 29th Ann. Hort. Ind. Show. Pp 160-162.
- Webber, C.L. III and Roberts, B.W. 2010. Organic Greenhouse Soil Media and Supplemental Fertilizer = Better Organic Tomato Transplants. Proc. 29th Ann. Hort. Ind. Show. Pp. 163-164.
- Shrefler, J., L. Brandenberger, M. Taylor, and W. Roberts. 2010. Yield Response of Okra to Transplanting. HortScience. 45(4): 517.
- Roberts, W., J. Shrefler, M. Taylor, and C. Webber. 2010. Soil Changes after Four Years of Organic Vegetable Production. HortScience 45(4):516-517.
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Progress 10/01/08 to 09/30/09
Outputs
OUTPUTS: For the second year, an organic disease control study was conducted on two cultivars of trellised cherry tomatoes (Baxters Early Bush and Washington Cherry). In one half of the study, structures 3 feet wide, 10 feet long, and 6 feet high were built over the plants. The structures were open on the sides and ends, and covered with translucent plastic on the top, in order to provide a roof over the plants. Steel "t" posts and "rebar" were used to provide the support for the plastic cover. The roof was intended to protect the plants from rainfall and dew, and thus keep the foliage relatively dry, in order to lessen the incidence of foliar fungal diseases. The plastic had to be replaced during the season because of damage from sunlight and wind. Fruits were harvested and weights recorded. With both cultivars, the plants grown under a translucent roof cover had significantly greater fruit weight than did the uncovered plants. Baxters Early Bush produced a significantly greater yield than did Washington Cherry. In another study, ten cultivars of small bite-sized tomatoes were trellised and either pruned or not pruned. Pruning with indeterminant cultivars consisted of all lateral shoots being removed from the main stem. Pruning with determinant cultivars consisted of the removal of all lateral shoots that occurred below the first fruit cluster, while lateral shoots that grew above the first fruit cluster were not pruned. With eight out of ten cultivars, pruning produced lower fruit yield than did the non-pruned treatments. In another study, eight cover crops (hairy vetch, crimson clover, yellow clover, arrowleaf clover, rye, wheat, oats, ryegrass) were sown in September of 2008. The crops were allowed to over-winter. In the spring, each plot was divided into two equal portions. Half of each plot was tilled, while the remaining half was mowed at maturity, but was not tilled. The tilled portions of each plot were then planted with three crops (sweet corn, sweet potatoes, and southern peas). With southern peas, the yellow clover cover crop produced the highest yield, and the rye cover crop produced the lowest yield. With sweet corn, hairy vetch produced the highest yield, and all four legume cover crops yielded higher than any of the non-legume crops. Sweet potatoes could not be harvested because of weather conditions. PARTICIPANTS: Warren Roberts, Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Merritt Taylor, Department of Agricultural Economics, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Jim Shrefler, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Wyatt O'Hern, Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Tony Goodson, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Chris Kirby, Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Oklahoma City, Ok. Steve Upson, The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Ardmore, Oklahoma TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audiences are growers, agribusiness personnel, OCES personnel, representatives of other state and private agencies and foundations, public school employees, and consumers. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
There is increasing interest in organic food production in the U.S., but there is little information to support growers of organic produce in Oklahoma. For the past five years, research with organic vegetables has been conducted at the WWAREC. Results of this research are being presented to interested personnel in the state and region. An organic field day at the WWAREC attracted approximately 100 people who were interested in organic vegetable production. An organic workshop in Stillwater attracted approximately 50 people. Scientists at WWAREC presented organic research based information at both of these events. There is also little information to support growers who wish to provide fresh, locally grown, sustainable fruit and vegetable products for direct sales of farm-to-school vegetables. Studies are being conducted concerning small, bite-sized tomatoes that are well suited for fresh consumption in schools. Results of these studies are being presented to farmers, business personnel, and other agencies throughout Oklahoma. These studies will enable producers to select cultivars, disease control mechanisms, and fertility regimes of vegetables that are well suited to Oklahoma environmental conditions for both organic and conventional protocols. These studies also indicate the prevalence of weed, disease, and insect pests with organically grown crops under local environments. Results of this research will improve the feasibility of local food production systems, will improve the nutrition of local school diets, and will improve the economy of rural communities. This will insure that a safe and nutritious food supply can be produced using economical and environmentally safe methods.
Publications
- Kefyalew, Desta., Hailin Zhang, and Warren Roberts. 2009. Building soil organic matter for a sustainable organic crop production. In Desta, Kefyalew G., and Warren Roberts (eds). 2009. Enhancing the Adoption of Organic Farming Workshop. Oct. 14-15, 2008, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Proc. Ok. Coop. Ext. Ser. Pp. 11-20. Roberts, W., J. Shrefler, and M. Taylor. 2009. Organic Vegetable Production at the Lane Agricultural Center. In Desta, Kefyalew G., and Warren Roberts (eds). 2009. Enhancing the Adoption of Organic Farming Workshop. Oct. 14-15, 2008, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Proc. Ok. Coop. Ext. Ser. Pp. 57-61. Roberts, W., J. Shrefler, and M. Taylor. 2009. Organic Agriculture: Microbial Activity and Soil Health. In Desta, Kefyalew G., and Warren Roberts (eds). 2009. Enhancing the Adoption of Organic Farming Workshop. Oct. 14-15, 2008, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Proc. Ok. Coop. Ext. Ser. Pp. 21-27. Jim Shrefler, J., Davis, A., Taylor, M., Roberts, W., Russo, V., Edelson, J., Webber, C., Bruton, B., Perkins-Veazie, P. and Wayne Fish 2009. A team effort at organics: a 4 year project report from Lane, Oklahoma. Proc. 28th Ann. Hort. Ind. Show. Pp. 171-173. M. Taylor, Roberts, W., and J. Shrefler. 2009. Organic Agriculture: Organic Marketing and Post-Harvest Handling: Challenges and Opportunities. In Desta, Kefyalew G., and Warren Roberts (eds). 2009. Enhancing the Adoption of Organic Farming Workshop. Oct. 14-15, 2008, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Proc. Ok. Coop. Ext. Ser. Pp. 52-56. Shrefler, J., W. Roberts, and M. Taylor. 2009. Management factors and risk in cucurbit production. Proc. 28th Ann. Hort. Ind. Show. Fort Smith, AR. Pp. 202-205. Roberts, W. M. Taylor,and J. Shrefler. 2009. Use of technologies to reduce risk in vegetable crops. Proc. 28th Ann. Hort. Ind. Show. Fort Smith, AR. Pp. 224-227. Webber, C., J. Shrefler, M. Taylor, W. Roberts, and A. Davis. 2009. Are you considering organic certification Proc. 28th Ann. Hort. Ind. Show. Fort Smith, AR. Pp. 232-234. Webber, C., J. Shrefler, M. Taylor, W. Roberts, V. Russo, J. Edelson, P. Perkins-Veazie, B. Bruton, and W. Fish. 2009. Certified organic farming research and demonstration project by Oklahoma State University and USDAs Agricultural Research Service at Lane, Oklahoma. Proc. 28th Ann. Hort. Ind. Show. Fort Smith, AR. Pp. 235-236.
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Progress 10/01/07 to 09/30/08
Outputs
OUTPUTS: An organic disease control study was conducted on two cultivars of trellised cherry tomatoes. In one half of the study structures were built around and over the plants. The structures were open on the sides and ends and topped with sheet metal. The roof was intended to protect the plants from rainfall and dew to keep the foliage relatively dry to lessen the incidence of foliar fungal diseases. Visual ratings were taken to determine incidence of disease. In general, the plants grown under a roof cover tended to have less foliar disease but did not have more marketable weight. One cultivar, Baxter's Early Bush, had less foliar disease than did the other cultivar, Washington Cherry. There was a tendency for less foliar disease on the south side of the rows than on the north. Cantaloupe and honey dew melons were grown with either synthetic or organic fertilizer (poultry litter). Both fertilizers were applied at a rate equivalent to 100 lbs of N per acre. All fertilizers were applied pre-plant. Yields from organic fertilizer were numerically greater than yields from synthetic fertilizer but the difference was not significant at the 0.05 alpha level. The number of marketable fruits was statistically greater with organic fertilizer than with synthetic fertilizer. An heirloom variety of corn, Country Gentleman, was grown with different types of organic fertilizers including cotton seed meal, bone meal, corn gluten meal, rock phosphate, potash, alfalfa meal, and poultry litter. Combinations of materials were used to provide 100 lbs of N, 50 lbs of P205, and 200 lbs of K20 in every treatment except one that contained only poultry litter. Yields averaged 8 ounces per ear and ranged from 7 to 9 ounces per ear. Yields did not different significantly among fertilizer treatments. Several (86) cultivars of small tomatoes (cherry, plum, pear, grape), including both determinant and indeterminant types, were grown to enhance markets for local farm-to-school programs. Yields ranged from near zero to over 24 tons per acre. The highest yielding cultivars, in descending order, were Principe Borghese, Tiny Totem, Cherry Grande, Health Kick, Small Fry, Washington Cherry, Baxter's Early Bush and Window Box Roma. All top yielding cultivars were determinant types. Two field days were held at the Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center (WWAREC) for training of growers, agribusiness personnel, and consumers. One field day concentrated solely on organic agriculture while the second field day included both organic and conventional production methods. Approximately 800 people attended the two field days. A training session for Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service Personnel, growers, agri-business personnel, and representatives from other state agencies was held for approximately 50 people in Oklahoma City, Ok. Training was provided to approximately 25 non-traditional adult students in a market gardening class in Oklahoma City, OK. Training was also provided to approximately 75 growers and agribusiness personnel at a multi-state growers conference in Chickasha, Ok and to approximately 100 people at a multi-state Horticulture Industries Show in Tulsa, Ok. PARTICIPANTS: Warren Roberts, Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Merritt Taylor, Department of Agricultural Economics, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Jim Shrefler, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Wyatt O'Hern, Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Tony Goodson, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Penny Perkins-Veazie, South Central Agricultural Research Laboratory, USDA-ARS, Lane, Ok. Chris Kirby, Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Oklahoma City, Ok. Steve Upson, The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Ardmore, Oklahoma Alan Ware, Kerr Center for Sustainable Agriculture, Poteau, Ok. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audiences are growers, agribusiness personnel, OCES personnel, representatives of other state and private agencies and foundations, public school employees, and consumers. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
There is increasing interest in organic food production in the U.S., but there is little information to support growers of organic produce in Oklahoma. For the past four years, research with organic vegetables has been conducted at the WWAREC. Results of this research are being presented to interested personnel in the state and region. An organic field day at the WWAREC attracted approximately 100 people who were interested in organic vegetable production. An organic workshop in Oklahoma City attracted approximately 50 people. Scientists at WWAREC presented organic research based information at both of these events. There is also little information to support growers who wish to provide fresh, locally grown, sustainable fruit and vegetable products for direct sales of farm-to-school vegetables. Studies are being conducted concerning small, bite-sized tomatoes that are well suited for fresh consumption in schools. Results of these studies are being presented to farmers, business personnel, and other agencies throughout Oklahoma. These studies will enable producers to select cultivars and fertility regimes of vegetables that are well suited to Oklahoma environmental conditions for both organic and conventional protocols. These studies also indicate the prevalence of weed, disease, and insect pests with organically grown crops under local environments. Results of this research will improve the feasibility of local food production systems, will improve the nutrition of local school diets, and will improve the economy of rural communities. This will insure that a safe and nutritious food supply can be produced using economical and environmentally safe methods.
Publications
- Roberts, Warren, Penny Perkins-Veazie, Merritt Taylor, and Jim Shrefler 2008. Bite-Sized Tomatoes: Cultivars and Quality for a Farm-to-School Lunch Program. HortScience 43(3):629.
- Taylor, M., B.Bruton, W.Fish and W.Roberts. 2008. Cost Benefit Analyses of Using Grafted Watermelon Transplants for Fusarium Wilt Disease. Acta Horticulturae, Vol. 782, 343-350.
- Shrefler, J. W., W. Roberts, M. Taylor, L. Brandenberger and C. Webber III. 2008. Potential Components for Weed Management in Organic Vegetable Production Systems. HortScience. 43(4). p 1107.
- Roberts, Warren, Benny Bruton, Wayne Fish, and Merritt Taylor. 2008. Melon Types and Cultivars Grown with Organic and Synthetic Fertilizers. HortScience 43(3):629.
- Shrefler, J. W., W. Roberts, M. Taylor, P. Perkins-Veazie and C. Webber III. 2008. A Fresh-Market Onion Production System for the U. S. Southern Plains Using Short and Intermediate Daylength Cultivars. HortScience. 43(4). p 1227.
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Progress 10/01/06 to 09/30/07
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Tomatoes, watermelon, southern peas, and sweet corn were grown in a study certified as organic under the USDA National Organic Program. Economic comparisons were developed for each of the four crops using treatments and yields from the study. All four crops were grown organically using poultry litter as a fertilizer, and using various organic supplements and techniques for pest control. In a separate study, tomatoes are currently being grown for the potting plant market in a greenhouse experiment using synthetic fertilizers, organic fertilizers, and humic acid supplements. Shoot and root size as well as shoot and root weights are currently being determined. In another study, cantaloupe and honey dew melons were grown with either synthetic or organic fertilizer (poultry litter). Both fertilizers were applied at a rate equivalent to 100 lbs of N per acre. Yields from synthetic fertilizers were greater than yields from poultry litter fertilizer. In another study, an heirloom
variety of corn was grown with both organic (poultry litter) and synthetic fertilizers. This is a multi-year experiment comparing synthetic fertilizers with poultry litter fertilizers. Yields were similar among fertilizer treatments. In another experiment, synthetic fertilizers were compared with worm castings, composted poultry litter, raw poultry litter, and poultry litter tea for production of collard greens. Yields were similar with all treatments. In general, the modified poultry litter treatments (worm castings, composted poultry litter, and poultry litter tea) were not superior to the raw poultry litter treatment. In another study, 90 cultivars of small tomatoes (cherry, plum, pear, grape) were grown in a study designed to enhance markets for local, farm-to-school programs.
PARTICIPANTS: Warren Roberts, Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Merritt Taylor, Department of Agricultural Economics, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Jim Shrefler, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Jonathan Edelson, Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Ok. Wyatt O'Hern, Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Tony Goodson, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Nathan Wilson, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Cody Sheffield, Wes Watkins Agricultural
Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. John Holcomb, Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Oklahoma State University, Lane, Ok. Penny Perkins-Veazie, South Central Agricultural Research Laboratory, USDA-ARS, Lane, Ok. Bryan Unruh, BioTech Ventures, LLC, Ardmore, Ok. Chris Kirby, Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Oklahoma City, Ok. Alan Ware, Kerr Center for Sustainable Agriculture, Poteau, Ok. Training or Profession Development A field day was held at the Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center for training of growers, agribusiness personnel, and consumers. Approximately 700 people attended the field day. In addition, a training session for Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service Personnel was given to approximately 20 OCES county-based personnel in Stillwater, Ok. In addition, training was provided to approximately 75 growers and agribusiness personnel at a multi-state growers conference in Chickasha, Ok, and also to
approximately 50 people at a multi-county growers conference in Hydro, Ok.
TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audiences are growers, agribusiness personnel, OCES personnel, public school employees, and consumers.
Impacts
There is presently little information to support growers of organic produce in Oklahoma. Likewise, there is little information to support growers who wish to provide fresh, locally grown, sustainable fruit and vegetable products for direct sales of farm-to-school vegetables. These studies will enable producers to select cultivars and fertility regimes of vegetables that are well suited to Oklahoma environmental conditions for both organic and conventional protocols. These studies will also indicate the likely occurrence of weed, disease, and insect pests with organically grown crops under local environments. Results will improve the feasibility of local food production systems, will improve the nutrition of local school diets, and will improve the economy of rural communities. This will insure that a safe and nutritious food supply can be produced using economical and environmentally safe methods.
Publications
- Lu, Wenhua, B. Warren Roberts, Merritt J. Taylor, Jonathan V. Edelson, Carla Goad, William D. Warde, Seong S. Chae. 2007. Production systems and association of management factors affecting productivity of Watermelon. Journal Vegetable Science. 13(4): In Press.
- Perkins-Veazie, Penelope, Warren Roberts, and Julie K. Collins. 2006. Lycopene content among organically produced tomatoes. Journal of Vegetable Science. 12(4):93-106.
- Roberts, Warren, Benny Bruton, Wayne Fish, and Merritt Taylor. 2007. Using grafted transplants in watermelon production. Ed. W. T. Kelley. Proc. 2007 SE Reg. Veg. Conf. Georgia Fruit and Veg. Growers Assoc., Univ. of Georgia. Pp 33-36.
- Taylor, Merritt, Benny Bruton, Wayne Fish, and Warren Roberts. 2007. Cost Benefit Analyses of Using Grafted Watermelon Transplants for Fusarium Wilt Disease Control. International Society of Horticultural Scientists, 4th INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM on Seed, Transplant and Stand Establishment of Horticultural Crops, XX:XXXX. In Press.
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