Growing crops on plastic and using drip irrigation is rarely used in our farming region.  Due the planned hemp crop that will be grown using this technology, a plastic culture field day was planned to share information with area growers.  

Over 100 growers from 11 Kentucky counties and 2 Ohio Counties attended a regional field day in Bracken County that highlighted the requirements, machinery, and methods used for Plastic Culture crop production.  

Each segment of the process was explained including pumps and volumes needed, supply lines and filters, and field preparation.   The horticulture agent demonstrated to one group how a mulch layer works as it forms a raised bed, and puts down the plastic and drip tape as the machine is pulled through the field.  

Included in the demonstration was the use of biodegradable plastic and a report on its performance on 3 vegetable plots last year.  Agents reported how regular plastic must be taken up at the end of the growing season and this material is broken down by soil microbes at the end of the season once it is incorporated into the soil.   

Everyone that attended the event had a chance to connect drip tape to valves, and insert the valves into a supply line.  This valuable hands on experience was appreciated since they have never used this type of irrigation.  Numerous producers have contacted the extension service for additional information regarding suppliers and setting up their system before the growing season.

In addition the horticulture agent spoke with area farmers and determined that a new plastic layer and trailer was needed. Based upon the need within Mason County the Extension District Board approved for the requested equipment. The new layer will allow farmers to lay tighter plastic potential resulting in better outcomes for the growing season.