High Tunnel vegetable producers are suffering yield losses due to year to year compaction

The local ANR Agent and the producer partner together to use technology developed for growing tobacco in the field in Kentucky.  They used an 8ft wide spring-toothed pulled by a 65 HPR 4-wheel drive tractor.  The equipment will fit through the standard size doors of a high tunnel and has enough horsepower to plow 9" deep and break up the compaction.  This has allowed for better aeration and deeper root penetration.  This has resulted in earlier tomato production, more vigorous plant growth and has almost doubled the fruit yield. The average fruit size is larger and more valuable.  

Ten High Tunnel growers participated in the study

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.