1995 Annual Report for FNC95-102
Project Type: Farmer/Rancher
Funds awarded in 1995: $4,700.00
Projected End Date: 12/31/1997
Region: North Central
State: Minnesota
Project Coordinator:
Developing Weed Control Methods for Organic Raspberry Production
Summary
The major impediments in expanding production of organically grown raspberries are weed control and fertility.
Objectives: Testing efficiency and effectiveness of two options for in-row weed control: straw mulch and corn gluten meal (CGM). Evaluation consists of: 1) effectiveness of in-row weed suppression, and 2) impact on total yield and earliness of harvest.
Results: Data obtained in this demonstration determined that CGM was effective in controlling weeds in raspberries for approximately one month, with better weed control as rate of CGM was increased. Further studies are needed to determine optimum balance between weed control and crop nitrogen requirement. Project was extended for one year to gather additional data.