Progress 09/04/13 to 09/04/18
Outputs
Target Audience:Higher education students, state and national researchers, extension personnel, commercial producers, community members. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Several types of communication channels are used to reach and meet the needs for information, education and training to various groups throughout the state. We are continuously communicating with producers and individuals interested in pursuing or already engaged in the use of various production systems such as fields, high tunnels, greenhouses and indoor controlled environments. Training opportunities in topics related to horticultural production are regularly offered and presented to students at secondary and post-secondary levels. Presentations are also 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. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Presentations are provided at local, regional, national and international meetings, conferences and workshops on crop production in various environments including greenhouses and other indoor growing approaches, high tunnels, season extension techniques, and field conditions. Posters of recent findings are displayed and made available at various gatherings related to university activities, educational outreach and community events. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Concerns for interference in delivery systems and year-round food availability are threats to food security in Alaska. Crop production efforts in northern areas are challenged by high-energy demands. Growing environments with suitable conditions are needed to compensate for short days and low light during the extended winter season. To improve community sustainability and food security, high tunnels, greenhouses and other types of controlled environments are explored to increase and extend the availability of locally grown crops. Information using energy efficient greenhouses and other controlled environment production systems is continuously developing, although management techniques specifically suited to high latitude environments are still inadequate. For instance, more efficient lighting technologies such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) require research for information dissemination that are appropriate for areas with limited natural light. Panels of LEDs designed for plant growth often provide spectral peaks centered on blue (450 nm) and red (630/660 nm) wavelengths. Although red and blue irradiance effectively drive photosynthesis, morphological development and flowering may be altered under spectrums more limited than natural light. For instance, spinach tends to rapidly develop flowers under long summer days with limited leaf production for harvest. Under more monochromatic lighting however, flowering is significantly delayed and protocols for producing local high quality spinach using LEDs can be developed. Increasing local production has many benefits in addition to a more secure food supply. Recent analyses for instance, suggest bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers and butterhead lettuce grown locally and available at farmers markets have higher sugar content (°Brix) than equivalent produce brought in and sold in grocery stores. Health promoting phytochemicals and minerals are also likely to be higher in locally grown fruits and vegetables. In addition to the production of tomatoes and cucumbers, colored bell peppers are receiving interest as a profitable option for local controlled environment production. An experiment determined the effects of trellising and pruning on yield. Most cultivars were more productive in a three- compared to one-leaf pruning approach. Some greenhouse bell peppers tend to produce many fruits followed by limited pepper development. To evaluate more consistent fruit load over the season, a study was initiated where flowers were selectively removed. Although flower removal resulted in slightly lower yields (0.5 kg per plant), fruit development was more consistent through the season. The dwarf sunflower 'Sunny Smile' was grown in various spectral conditions using LEDs. Most LED grown plants flowered in 62 ± 3 days from seeding. Under red/blue LEDs, plant height was significantly shorter (12.4 ± 0.8 cm) and under blue LEDs significantly taller (19.8 ± 0.3 cm). All growing environments supported the development of quality sunflowers, although the compact growth under red/blue LEDs may be preferred in some markets of flowering potted plants. The tomato scions 'Komeett' and 'Amsterdam' were grafted onto the rootstock 'Maxifort' to evaluate the use of LEDs during seedling development. The shortest transplants developed under red/blue LEDs at 15.3 ± 1.3 cm for 'Komeett' and 16.7 ± 1.9 cm for 'Amsterdam'. The blue environment also resulted in short transplants, while red LEDs produced the tallest plants. All light qualities supported the growth and development of quality tomato transplants with 100 percent grafting success. Commonly used growing techniques such as grafted vegetable transplants have not been well evaluated in northern field seasons. 'Beaverlodge Slicer' grafted on the rootstocks 'Maxifort', 'DRO138TX' and SuperNatural® was evaluated. Results suggest limited advantages of grafting tomatoes on rootstocks for earliness and productivity. The highest yields were recorded for intact and self-grafted plants. There were no differences in productivity or earliness among plants grafted on the three rootstocks. Sunflower and bush bean transplants grown using LEDs were evaluated for field performance. Results suggest various types of LEDs support similar growth and development as natural greenhouse conditions, without significant carry-over effects. 1. Several studies have been conducted to determine the effects and potential implementations of LEDs for greenhouse and controlled environment production. Energy efficient and sustainable growing systems suited specifically to high latitude controlled environments have been evaluated. 2. The work on use of LEDs and adapted growing systems also apply to this goal. 3. High intensity discharge lamps have been used for many years to provide supplemental lighting in greenhouses. LEDs are a promising alternative to HID lamps. Expectations of higher energy efficiency with increased control over the spectrum, suggest LEDs will improve resource use while allowing for a uniform growing environment to support crop productivity and quality. Greenhouse production systems that take advantage of the extended hours of daylight during the summer half of the year and transition into less light demanding crops at other times can be expected more resource efficient and sustainable in northern climates. 4. Field and high tunnel production of tomatoes and other warm season crops are marginal in many parts of Alaska. Grafted vegetable transplants are studied in efforts to increase seasonal earliness and productivity. Despite claims of faster development and higher yields, the results for grafted tomatoes have been mixed. Additional studies are necessary to identify scion and rootstock combinations suitable for Alaska field and greenhouse conditions. 5. As we gain further knowledge and understanding of using LEDs and other techniques, additional publications and outreach efforts will be developed. An extension publication related to the use of "Plastic mulch, row covers and low tunnels for vegetable production in Alaska" was significantly revised and updated for those interested in improving and extending the field season. As we gain further knowledge and understanding of using LEDs and other techniques, we anticipate additional publications and outreach efforts in this goal and purpose area. The extension publication Controlling the Greenhouse Environment is an effort to disseminate relevant and accurate information. As we gain additional knowledge and understanding of the use of LEDs and techniques such as vegetable grafting, we anticipate additional publications and outreach efforts in this goal and purpose area. 6. The college level greenhouse management course is offered annually. This course provides significant information on modern control and management techniques for greenhouses and controlled environments. The courses Applied Plant Science and Principles of Sustainable Agriculture are also offered annually to undergraduate students. Both of these courses have significant sections and emphasis on effective and sustainable use and management of light and other climatic conditions. Understanding and implementing greenhouse and season extension environments are a must for efficient controlled environment and northern crop production. 7. Results and experiences on the efficient use of LEDs and protocols for greenhouse bell-pepper production have been communicated at state, national and international scientific conferences, as well as in post-secondary education and producer oriented gatherings. The ASHS (American society for horticultural science) annual meetings and the international ISHS (International society for horticultural science) conference and symposium on Light in Horticulture in 2016 provided extensive opportunities for information exchange and discussions.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Karlsson, M. and M. Grandfield. 2018. Sustained fruit load development in greenhouse bell peppers. HortScience 53(9):S385.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Karlsson, M. 2018. Nutritional Quality of Alaska Grown Produce. Specialty Crops Block Grant, Alaska Division of Agriculture, Final Performance Report.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Karlsson, M. 2018. Growing under Lights. Alaska Sustainable Agriculture Conference & Workshop, Anchorage, AK
|
Progress 10/01/16 to 09/30/17
Outputs
Target Audience:Higher education students, state and national researchers, extension personnel, commercial producers, community members Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Several types of communication channels are used to reach and meet the needs for information, education and training to various groups throughout the state. We are continuously communicating with producers and individuals interested in pursuing or already engaged in the use of various production systems such as fields, high tunnels, greenhouses and indoor controlled environments. Training opportunities in topics related to horticultural production are regularly offered and presented to students at secondary and post-secondary levels. Presentations are also 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. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Presentations are provided at local, regional, national and international meetings, conferences and workshops on crop production in various environments including greenhouses and other indoor growing approaches, high tunnels, season extension techniques, and field conditions. Posters of recent findings are displayed and made available at various gatherings related to university activities, educational outreach and community events. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?We are continuing the initiated studies and are adapting research protocols to more effectively use the available research greenhouse facility. The setup for the LED research is updated for improved efficiency. Our outreach efforts include grower gatherings, responses to requests for information, scientific and producer oriented publications, and formal instructional secondary and post-secondary activities.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Crop production efforts in northern areas are challenged by high-energy demands. Growing environments with suitable light and temperature conditions are needed to compensate for short days and low light during the extended winter season. To improve community sustainability and food security, high tunnels, greenhouses and other types of controlled environments are explored to increase and extend the availability of locally grown crops. Information using energy efficient greenhouses and other controlled environment production systems is continuously developing, although management and adaptation techniques specifically suited 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 areas with limited natural light. Panels of LEDs designed for plant growth often provide spectral peaks centered on blue (450 nm) and red (630 to 660 nm) wavelengths. Although red and blue irradiance effectively drive photosynthesis, morphological development and flowering may be altered under spectrums more limited than natural light. A study has recently been initiated to evaluate the response of spinach to LED lighting. Under long summer days, spinach tends to rapidly develop flowers with limited leaf production for harvest. Preliminary results suggest significantly delayed flowering under monochromatic LED lighting. Based on these findings, production protocols for high quality local spinach may be developed. In addition to the production of tomatoes and cucumbers, sweet bell peppers (Capsicum annuum) is a suitable option for local controlled environment production. Bell peppers bred for greenhouse production systems are often trellised in vertical growing systems to facilitate crop management and optimize space utilization. A protocol of one to four primary stems with pruned side shoots is often used to encourage reproductive growth and enhance productivity. Recommendations vary as to number of leaves to keep on the developing lateral side branches. A preliminary study suggested increased productivity when three leaves compared to one leaf were left on side branches in a two-stem trellising system. To further evaluate the importance of side shoot pruning, an experiment with the greenhouse bell pepper cultivars Fantasy (red), Paramo (orange), and Striker (yellow) was initiated. The study was completed in a greenhouse covered with the acrylic material DEGLAS®. Seeds were sown on January 15 and the study conducted from March 3 through August 29. Supplemental lighting from high pressure sodium lamps was provided when outside ambient light dropped below 400 W·m-2 between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM. The plants were grown in a high-wire drip irrigation system using dutch (bato) buckets (17.7 L volume) filled with a 50/50 mixture of perlite and a peatlite medium (Pro-Mix BX). The plants were trellised into a "V" shaped system using two primary shoots off the main stem. The lateral side-stems developing on the two primary stems were trimmed over one or three leaves throughout the study. The pepper fruits were harvested mature with at least 90 percent color formation. Fantasy, Paramo and Striker produced significantly higher yields in the three-leaf pruning approach. During the production period from June through August, the highest yield was observed for the yellow pepper Striker at an average 4.3 ± 0.72 kg per plant in the three-leaf system. In comparison, the one-leaf system yielded 3.7 ± 0.67 kg for Striker. Fantasy and Paramo had similar yields at 3.8 ± 0.86 kg per plant with the three-leaf system and 3.4 ± 0.71 kg in the one-leaf pruning approach. Along with a larger yield, the three-leaf system also resulted in additional fruits per plant. Individual peppers were heavier in the one-leaf system for all cultivars but the size difference did not make up for the fewer peppers. The weight of individual peppers varied from 232.0 ± 14.76 grams for Striker (one-leaf system) to 190.3 ± 31.46 grams for Paramo in the three-leaf system. 1. Several studies have been initiated to determine the effects and potential implementations of LEDs for greenhouse and controlled environment production. Sustainable and efficient greenhouse systems to produce vegetables specifically suited to high latitudes are also evaluated. 2. The work on the use of LEDs and greenhouse growing systems also applies to this goal. 3. High intensity discharge lamps have been used for many years to provide supplemental lighting in greenhouses. LEDs are a promising alternative to HID lamps. Expectations of higher energy efficiency with increased control over the spectrum, suggest LEDs will improve resource use while allowing for a uniform growing environment to support crop productivity and quality. Greenhouse production systems that take advantage of the extended hours of daylight during the summer half of the year and transition into less light demanding crops at other times can be expected more resource efficient and sustainable in northern climates. 4. Field and high tunnel production of tomatoes and other warm season crops are marginal in many parts of Alaska. Grafted vegetable transplants have been studied in efforts to increase seasonal earliness and productivity. Despite claims of faster development and higher yields, the results for grafted tomatoes have been mixed. Additional studies are necessary to identify scion and rootstock combinations suitable for Alaska field and greenhouse conditions. 5. An extension publication related to the use of "Plastic mulch, row covers and low tunnels for vegetable production in Alaska" was significantly revised and updated for those interested in improving and extending the field season. As we gain further knowledge and understanding of using LEDs and other techniques, we anticipate additional publications and outreach efforts in this goal and purpose area. 6. In the fall of 2016, the course Applied Plant Science was offered to undergraduate students. This course had a significant emphasis on the sustainable use of resources and the management of light and other climatic conditions. In the fall of 2017, Applied Plant Science was again offered. The courses Principles of Sustainable Agriculture and Greenhouse Management were offered in the spring of 2017. The college level greenhouse management course includes substantial information on modern control and management techniques for greenhouses and controlled environments. Understanding and implementing greenhouse and season extension environments are essential for efficient local northern crop production. 7. Results and experiences on the efficient use of LEDs and protocols for greenhouse bell-pepper production have been communicated at state, national and international scientific conferences, as well as in post-secondary education and producer oriented gatherings. The annual ASHS (American society for horticultural science) meeting was in September of 2017. This conference provided extensive opportunities for information exchange and discussions relative to the use and adaptation of LED lighting technologies in research and crop production along with the use and implementation of controlled environment facilities for crop production in various geographic locations and climates. The publication "Biomass-heated greenhouses, a handbook for Alaskan schools and community organizations" was completed and available in April of 2017.
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Stevens, V., A. Cooke, M. Rettig, R. Garber-Slaght, C. Craven, D. Madden, H. Nelson, G. Heaverley, C. DiRutigliano, D. Khalsa, M. Karlsson, S. Kilcoyne, C. Fisk, L. Heifetz, B. Goodrich, C. Barnes, P. Goulding, L. Burch and J. Fitzpatrick. 2017. Biomass-heated greenhouses, a handbook for Alaskan schools and community organizations. Available at: www.akenergyauthority.org/Programs/AEEE/Biomass#green%20house%20handbook
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Karlsson, M. 2017. Locally grown: food security and horticulture in Alaska. Plant Growth Regulation Society of America. Available at: www.pgrsa.org/conference/2017-conference.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Karlsson, M. 2017. Plastic mulch, row covers and low tunnels for vegetable production in Alaska. Cooperative Extension Service, University of Alaska Fairbanks, FGV-00647.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Goodale C.B. and M. Karlsson. 2017. Pruning greenhouse bell peppers for productivity. HortScience 51(9):S438.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Karlsson, M. 2018. Locally grown: food security and horticulture in Alaska. Plant Growth Regulation Society of America Proceedings of the 44th Annual Meeting. In press.
|
Progress 10/01/15 to 09/30/16
Outputs
Target Audience:Higher education students, state and national researchers, extension personnel, commercial producers, community members. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Several types of communication channels are used to reach and meet the needs for information, education and training to various groups throughout the state. We are continuously communicating with producers and individuals interested in pursuing or already 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 also 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. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Presentations are 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. Posters of recent findings are displayed and made available at various gatherings related to university activities and community events. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?We are continuing already initiated studies and are adapting research protocols to more effectively use the available research greenhouse facility. Our outreach efforts include grower gatherings, responses to requests for information, scientific and producer oriented publications, and formal instructional secondary and post-secondary activities.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Crop production efforts during periods other than traditional field seasons are challenged with high energy demands in northern areas to compensate for low temperatures and limited daily light. To improve community sustainability, high tunnels, greenhouses and other types of controlled environments still need to be explored for extended and increased local food production. Significant amounts of information are available using energy efficient greenhouse production systems, although management techniques suitable for 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 areas with limited natural light. Panels of LEDs designed for plant growth often provide spectral peaks centered on blue (450 nm) and red (630 to 660 nm) wavelengths. Although red and blue irradiance effectively drive photosynthesis, morphological development and flowering may be altered under the more limited spectra than natural light. The dwarf sunflower 'Sunny Smile' was seeded and placed into light quality treatments of red LEDs (peak emission at 630 and 665 nm), blue LEDs (peak at 455 nm), red/blue LEDs (80:20, peak at 665 and 455 nm), or white LEDs (3700 K). In addition, T5 fluorescent (4100 K) and natural greenhouse light supplemented with high-pressure sodium (HPS) irradiance were evaluated. The growing areas of LEDs and fluorescent were separated and shielded from natural and greenhouse light using an opaque blackout material. Plants were grown at a constant 21°C with a 16-hour photoperiod at approximately 150 µmol·m-2s-1. Most LED grown plants flowered in 62 ± 3 days from seeding. Sunflowers in treatments with fluorescent, red or white LEDs were 15.5 ± 2.2 cm tall at flowering. Under red/blue LEDs, plant height was significantly shorter (12.4 ± 0.8 cm) and under blue LEDs significantly taller (19.8 ± 0.3 cm). The shorter red/blue grown plants had stem calipers of 12.1 ± 1.2 mm while the taller blue grown plants averaged 8.2 ± 0.8 mm. In contrast, the stem caliper in red, white or fluorescent treatments averaged 10.9 ± 1.2 mm. All growing environments supported the development of quality sunflowers, although the compact growth under red/blue LEDs may be preferred in some markets of flowering potted plants. Colored bell peppers (Capsicum annuum) are receiving increasing interest as a profitable greenhouse produced crop. To optimize greenhouse space and productivity, the plants are commonly trellised and pruned. A common production approach is to train two lateral shoots into a "V" system off the main stem. Pruning recommendations vary in respect to length and number of leaves to keep on the lateral branches developing on the two trellised stems. An experiment was therefore initiated to determine the effects of pruning on total yield. The six cultivars Fantasy (red), Fascinato (red), Organela (orange), Paramo (orange), Striker (yellow) and Tenato (yellow) were selected. The study was completed from Feb. 17 through Sept. 28. The plants were grown in a vertical high-wire drip irrigation system using dutch buckets (17.7 L volume) filled with a 50/50 perlite peatlite mixture. One set of plants was pruned so that each lateral side-stem was topped over one leaf while in the second group, three leaves were left. Fantasy, Fascinato and Paramo produced significantly higher yields in the three-leaf approach. There were no differences in yield for Orangela, Striker or Tenato. During the production period from June through September, the highest yields were observed for the red peppers Fantasy (4.7 ± 0.82 kg per plant) and Fascinato (4.5 ± 0.69 kg per plant) in the three-leaf system. In contrast, the yield for the yellow peppers Striker and Tenato was 4.2 ± 0.67 and 4.0 ± 0.74 kg per plant independent of the pruning technique. Orangela produced 3.7 ± 0.55 kg per plant in both systems while Paramo (4.0 ± 0.68 kg) was more productive in the three-leaf approach. Size of individual peppers was similar for each cultivar independent of pruning technique. For those cultivars with higher yields, the increase was due to the development of additional, not larger, peppers. The average weight for a single pepper varied from 196 for Paramo to 245 grams for Striker. 1. Several studies have been initiated to determine the effects and potential implementations of LEDs for greenhouse and controlled environment production. Sustainable and efficient greenhouse systems to produce vegetables specifically suited to high latitudes are also evaluated. 2. The work on the use of LEDs and greenhouse growing systems also applies to this goal. 3. High intensity discharge lamps have been used for many years to provide supplemental lighting in greenhouses. LEDs are a promising alternative to HID lamps. Expectations of higher energy efficiency with increased control over the spectrum, suggest LEDs will improve resource use while allowing for a uniform growing environment to support crop productivity and quality. Greenhouse production systems that take advantage of the extended hours of daylight during the summer half of the year and transition into less light demanding crops at other times can be expected more resource efficient and sustainable in northern climates. 4. Field and high tunnel production of tomatoes and other warm season crops are marginal in many parts of Alaska. Grafted vegetable transplants have been studied in efforts to increase seasonal earliness and productivity. Despite claims of faster development and higher yields, the results for grafted tomatoes have been mixed. Additional studies are necessary to identify scion and rootstock combinations suitable for Alaska field and greenhouse conditions. 5. A workshop arranged by the Cooperative Extension Service in September of 2015 to evaluate possibilities and challenges for using high tunnels in Alaska, offered unique opportunities to disseminate information to extension agents as well as commercial producers. As we gain further knowledge and understanding of using LEDs and other techniques, we anticipate additional publications and outreach efforts in this goal and purpose area. 6. In the fall of 2015, the courses Applied Plant Science and Principles of Sustainable Agriculture were offered to undergraduate students. Both of these courses had significant emphases on the sustainable use and management of light and other climatic conditions. In the fall of 2016, Applied Plant Science was again offered. For the 2017 spring semester, the courses Principles of Sustainable Agriculture and Greenhouse Management will be offered. The college level greenhouse management course includes substantial information on modern control and management techniques for greenhouses and controlled environments. Understanding and implementing greenhouse and season extension environments are essential for efficient local northern crop production. 7. The results on efficient use of LEDs and protocols for greenhouse bell-pepper production have been communicated at state, national and international scientific conferences, as well as in post-secondary education and producer oriented gatherings. The international ISHS (International society for horticultural science) conference and symposium on Light in Horticulture was held in May of 2016 and the annual ASHS (American society for horticultural science) meeting in August of 2016. These conferences provided extensive opportunities for information exchange and discussions relative to the use and adaptation of LED lighting technologies in research and crop production along with the use and implementation of controlled environment facilities for crop production in various geographic locations and climates.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Cook. E., C.B. Goodale and M. Karlsson. 2016. Managing greenhouse bell peppers for optimal yield. HortScience 51:S258.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Cook, E. and M. Karlsson. 2016. Growing dwarf sunflowers using light emitting diodes. Eighth International Symposium on Light in Horticulture. International Society of Horticultural Science. Program & Abstract P-20:62.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Seefeldt, S.S., M.G. Karlsson and K.M. DiCristina. 2016. Vegetable variety selection: influence of latitude and climate change. Circumpolar Agricultural Conference, Role of agriculture in the circumpolar bio-economy, Reykjavik, Iceland. Conference Booklet, P5, page 35.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Karlsson, M. 2016. Pollination and fruit development in tomatoes. Cooperative Extension Service, University of Alaska Fairbanks, HGA-00435.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Karlsson, M. 2016. Growing cucumbers in greenhouses. Cooperative Extension Service, University of Alaska Fairbanks, HGA-00434.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Karlsson, M. 2016. Roses growing and overwintering tender varieties. Cooperative Extension Service, University of Alaska Fairbanks, HGA-00138.
|
Progress 10/01/14 to 09/30/15
Outputs
Target Audience:Higher education students, state and national researchers, extension personnel, commercial producers, community members. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Various communication and educational channels are used to reach and meet the needs for information and training of several groups throughout the state. We are continuously communicating with producers and individuals interested in pursuing or already 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 also 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. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Presentations are 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. Posters of recent findings are displayed and made available at various gatherings related to university activities and community events. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?We are continuing already initiated studies and are adapting research protocols to most effectively use the newly constructed research greenhouse facility. Our outreach efforts include grower gatherings, responses to requests for information, scientific and producer oriented publications, and formal instructional secondary and post-secondary activities.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Crop production efforts during periods other than traditional field seasons are challenged with high energy demands in northern areas to compensate for low temperatures and limited daily light. To improve community sustainability, high tunnels, greenhouses and other types of controlled environments still need to be explored for extended and increased local food production. Significant amounts of information are available using energy efficient greenhouse production systems, although management techniques suitable for 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 areas with limited natural light. Growing techniques such as grafting have not extensively been evaluated for northern greenhouses. Grafted vegetable transplants are used to improve disease resistance, stress tolerance and increase yields. Greenhouse producers in northern climates need to start seedlings during the winter for tomato production in spring and summer to take advantage of increasing natural light. Since winter light integrals are low and supplemental lighting is needed, the impact of light quality on grafting success, plant growth and morphology is vital. The scions 'Komeett' and 'Amsterdam' were grafted onto the rootstock 'Maxifort', using the splice/tube grafting technique with cuts below the cotyledons to evaluate the use of LEDs during seedling development. The grafted seedlings were placed under red (peak emission 630 and 665 nm), blue (455 nm), red/blue (80:20, 665 and 455 nm), or white LEDs (3700 K). In addition, T5 fluorescent tubes (4100 K) and natural light supplemented with high-pressure sodium (HPS) irradiance were included. The shortest transplants developed in an environment of red/blue LEDs at 15.3 ± 1.3 cm for 'Komeett' and 16.7 ± 1.9 cm for 'Amsterdam'. The blue environment also resulted in short transplants, while red LEDs produced the tallest plants. The height compared to red/blue LEDs doubled to 33.7 ± 1.7 cm for 'Amsterdam' and increased from 15.3 cm to 27.8 ± 1.9 cm for 'Komeett' in the red LED environment. The average time to flower was 61 ('Komeett') or 62 days ('Amsterdam'). All light qualities examined supported the growth and development of quality grafted tomato transplants with 100 percent grafting success. The tall seedlings with a large leaf number developed under red LEDs had the smallest stem diameters but the greatest dry weights. On the other hand, red/blue LEDs produced short plants with large stem diameters, less dry weight and fewer leaves. Earlier studies have also reported compact seedlings under red/blue LEDs and tall plants with thin stems in red environments. The two cultivar/rootstock combinations under blue LEDs responded with short growth similar to the red/blue environment. Several other studies have reported tall plants under exclusively blue LEDs. Tomatoes may behave differently than earlier studied plant species or grafting modified the blue response. Although all growing environments in this study supported the development of quality transplants, the more compact plants under red/blue LEDs are expected to be preferred for greenhouse crop applications. The larger stem diameter is a desirable characteristic for plant establishment and development following transplant. The observed fewer leaves and lower dry weights are of less importance in determining overall quality and suitability for greenhouse crop establishment and production. 1. Several studies have been initiated to determine the effects and potential implementations of LEDs for greenhouse and controlled environment production. Energy efficient and sustainable growing systems suited specifically to high latitude controlled environments are also evaluated. 2. The work on use of LEDs and adapted growing systems also apply to this goal. 3. High intensity discharge lamps have been used for many years to provide supplemental lighting in greenhouses. LEDs are a promising alternative to HID lamps. Expectations of higher energy efficiency with increased control over the spectrum, suggest LEDs will improve resource use while allowing for a uniform growing environment to support crop productivity and quality. 4. Field and high tunnel production of tomatoes and other warm season crops are marginal in many parts of Alaska. Grafted vegetable transplants are studied in efforts to increase seasonal earliness and productivity. Despite claims of faster development and higher yields, the results for grafted tomatoes have been mixed. Additional studies are necessary to identify scion and rootstock combinations suitable for Alaska field and greenhouse conditions. 5. A workshop arranged by the Cooperative Extension Service in September of 2015 to evaluate possibilities and challenges for using high tunnels in Alaska, offered unique opportunities to disseminate information to extension agents as well as commercial producers. As we gain further knowledge and understanding of using LEDs and other techniques, we anticipate additional publications and outreach efforts in this goal and purpose area. 6. During the 2015 spring semester, the college level greenhouse management course included and delivered significant information on modern control and management techniques for greenhouses and controlled environments. In the fall of 2015, the courses Applied Plant Science and Principles of Sustainable Agriculture were offered to undergraduate students. Both of these courses had significant sections and emphasis on effective and sustainable use and management of light and other climatic conditions. Understanding and implementing greenhouse and season extension environments are a must for efficient controlled environment production. 7. The work on grafting and efficient use of LEDs have been communicated at national and international scientific conferences, as well as in post-secondary education and producer oriented gatherings. The annual meeting of the NCERA-101 committee and AERGC (Association of education and research greenhouse curators) was held in July of 2015 and the annual ASHS (American society for horticultural science) meeting in August of 2015. These conferences provided extensive opportunities for information exchange and discussions relative to the use and adaptation of suitable controlled environment technologies, methods and approaches for various climates.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2015
Citation:
Cook, E. and M. Karlsson. 2015. Light quality impacts on growth, morphology and flowering of grafted tomato seedlings. HortScience 49(9):56.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Karlsson, M. 2014. Grafted vegetable transplants for earliness and productivity during northern field seasons. HortScience 49(9):S287.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Cook, E. and M. Karlsson. 2016. Growing dwarf sunflowers using light emitting diodes. Acta Horticulturae (in press).
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Progress 10/01/13 to 09/30/14
Outputs
Target Audience: Higher education students, state and national researchers, extension personnel, commercial producers, community members Changes/Problems: A 4,500 square feet research greenhouse was completed in 2014. This facility replaces an outdated and inadequate greenhouse for research and teaching. The new greenhouse facility gives us opportunities to pursue and conduct more advanced climate controlled experiments, production systems and crop management techniques as they apply to northern production conditions. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Various communication and educational channels are used to reach and meet the needs for information and training of several 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 also 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. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Presentations are 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. Posters of recent findings are displayed and made available at various gathering related to university activities and community events. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? We are continuing already initiated studies and are in the process of developing research protocols to effectively use the newly constructed greenhouse facility. Our outreach efforts include grower gatherings, responses to requests for information, scientific and producer oriented publications, and formal instructional secondary and post-secondary activities.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Concerns for interference in delivery systems and year-round food availability are threats to food security in Alaska. Crop production efforts during periods other than traditional field seasons are challenged with high demands of energy to compensate for low temperatures and limited daily light. To improve overall year round community sustainability however, high tunnels, greenhouses and other types of controlled environments still need to be explored for extended and increased local food production. 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. Commonly used growing techniques such as grafted vegetable transplants have not been well evaluated in short field seasons. Grafting vegetable seedlings for field production is expected to decrease days to crop maturity while increasing yields, improving ability to withstand unfavorable climatic conditions, and enhancing resistance to soil-borne diseases and nematodes. Although studies are under way evaluating grafting in various North American regions, assessments of suitable rootstocks, cultivars, and crop benefits for using grafted vegetables are limited in high latitude areas. Grafting may be a technique to increase earliness and yields of fruited vegetables in regions of short growing seasons and cold soils. A field test using 'Beaverlodge Slicer' because of its adaptation to produce mature tomatoes in the time frame of high latitude field seasons. The selected rootstocks were 'Maxifort', 'DRO138TX' and SuperNatural®. As control treatments, non- and self-grafted transplants were included. Results suggest limited advantages of grafting tomatoes on rootstocks for earliness and productivity. There were no differences in productivity or earliness among plants grafted on the three rootstocks. Although these results did not show significant yield improvements, additional studies are necessary to include additional cultivars, crop management procedures, field locations and seasonal conditions to fully evaluate grafting for field production of tomatoes at high latitudes. Transplants grown using LEDs were evaluated during subsequent field development to determine if monochromatic spectral light distributions may affect morphology, flower formation or yield. Bush beans were grown using panels with red (peak emission at 665 nm) supplemented with 20 percent blue LEDs (peak emission at 455 nm). In addition to red/blue LEDs, sunflowers were also grown under white LEDs (3700 K), or a combination of LEDs (multi-LEDs) using 50 percent red (660 nm), 10 percent orange-red (635 nm), 10 percent orange (600 nm), 10 percent white (3700 K) and 20 percent blue (450 nm). Results suggest various types of LEDs support similar growth, morphology and development as natural greenhouse conditions, without significant carry-over effects on field performance. Days to flower from transplanting were 50 ± 1.6 d for sunflower 'ProCut Bicolor' independent of treatment. For 'Sunbright Supreme', transplants receiving short days during the propagation stage flowered 8 ± 2.3 d earlier than the 78 ± 1.3 d under long days. Three French filet type bush beans ('Concador', 'Stayton', 'Velour') and the traditional 'Provider' were included. Although the yield varied among cultivars, there was no significant difference between snap beans started under greenhouse conditions or the red/blue LEDs. 1. This project was initiated in September of 2013 and the timeframe for accomplishing progress in this area is short. We have several studies in progress on the effects and potential implementations of LEDs for greenhouse and controlled environment production. Growing systems suited specifically to high latitude controlled environments are also evaluated. 2. The work and use of LEDs and adapted growing systems also apply to this goal. 3. High intensity discharge lamps have been used for many years to provide supplemental lighting in greenhouses. LEDs are a promising alternative to HID lamps. Expectations of higher energy efficiency with increased control over the spectrum, suggest LEDs will improve resource use while allowing for a uniform growing environment to support crop productivity and quality. 4. Field and high tunnel production of tomatoes and other warm season crops are marginal in many parts of Alaska. Grafted vegetable transplants were studied in efforts to increase seasonal earliness and productivity. Despite claims of faster development and higher yields, the results for grafted tomatoes were mixed. Additional studies are necessary to identify suitable scion rootstock combinations for Alaska field conditions. 5. The recently published extension publication Controlling the Greenhouse Environment is an effort to disseminate relevant and accurate information. As we gain additional knowledge and understanding of the use of LEDs and techniques such as vegetable grafting, we anticipate additional publications and outreach efforts in this goal and purpose area. 6. During the 2014 spring semester, the college level greenhouse management course included and delivered significant information on modern control and management techniques for greenhouses and controlled environments. In the fall of 2014, the courses Applied Plant Science and Principles of Sustainable Agriculture were offered to undergraduate students. Both of these courses had significant sections and emphasis on effective and sustainable use and management of light and other climatic conditions. Understanding and implementing greenhouse and season extension environments is a must for efficient controlled environment production. 7. The work on grafting and efficient use of LEDs have been communicated at national and international scientific conferences, as well as in post-secondary education and producer oriented gatherings. The annual meeting of the NCERA-101 committee was held in April of 2014 at Chena Hot Springs Resort, Fairbanks, Alaska. This conference provided extensive opportunities for information exchange and discussions relative to the use and adaptation of controlled environment technologies, methods and approaches suitable for high latitude climates.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Karlsson, M. 2014. Grafted vegetable transplants for earliness and productivity during northern field seasons. HortScience 49(9):S287.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Karlsson, M. and C. Willingham. 2013. Field performance of transplants using light emitting diodes. HortScience 48(9):S41.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Karlsson, M. 2014. Controlling the greenhouse environment. University of Alaska Fairbanks, School of Natural Resources and Extension, Cooperative Extension Service HGA-00336.
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Progress 09/04/13 to 09/30/13
Outputs
Target Audience: 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, researchers. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?
Nothing Reported
How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? The reporting period for this project is from Jan 1st to Sept 30, 2013. This project was officially approved on Sept 4, 2013. There has not been sufficient time to conduct research and disseminate findings. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Continue addressing the research objectives as outlined in the approved proposal.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
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 are 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. 1. Advance production and management techniques for Alaska agricultural production in high tunnels, greenhouses and controlled environment production facilities. The project was initiated in September of 2013 and the timeframe for accomplishing progress in this area is very short. We are in the process of setting up several experiments to study the effects and potential implementations using light emitting diodes (LEDs) in greenhouse and controlled environment production. 2. Promote sustainable and energy efficient operation of controlled environment production facilities. The work on LEDs also applies to this goal. 3. Develop greenhouse control methods to improve resource use efficiency, climate uniformity, production quality, productivity and yields. High intensity discharge lamps have been used for many years to provide supplemental lighting in greenhouses. LEDs are a promising alternative to HID lamps. Expectations of higher energy efficiency, suggest LEDs will improve resource use efficiency while allowing for a more uniform growing environment to support crop growth and quality. 4. Investigate production and energy conservation strategies for high tunnels to allow for extended growing seasons. Since this project was recently initiated, we have not yet conducted any high tunnel studies. 5. Disseminate novel controlled environment technologies, methods and approaches to producers throughout the state. Due to the short project duration, no data and results have yet been collected. Therefore we have not had any opportunity to disseminate information to producers. 6. Teach up-to-date controlled environment technologies to students. During the 2014 spring semester, we are teaching a college level greenhouse management course that will offer information on modern control and management techniques for controlled environments. 7. Publish research findings, prepare educational materials, and exchange information with stakeholders, extension personnel and other researchers. At this time, we do not have any research findings to publish or share with extension personnel and producers.
Publications
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