No-till pumpkins using cover crops

No-till pumpkins using cover crops

Summary

This project’s goal is to use a tractor-pushed/pulled roller/crimper to develop organic and low-input pumpkin production systems. Current farm practices require high fuel consumption and multiple trips in the field. The work carried out through this proposal will reduce variable costs (e.g. fuel consumption, herbicide and other pesticide inputs) for both organic and conventional pumpkin production systems. The combination of conservation tillage practices with the use of the new roller/crimper cover crop technology will save farmers money while protecting the environment. The cover crop residue from the roller/crimper will provide disease and mud protection for the pumpkins, which will reduce inputs.

Objectives/Performance Targets

-Optimize cover crop management. Determine the appropriate cover crop management techniques to maximize biomass production.

-Develop a low-input pumpkin production system, measure microclimate parameters and pumpkin yield under organic and conventional low-input systems.

-Improve weed and disease management in pumpkin production. Determine the pest management systems that reduce inputs while providing season-long weed control and reduced fruit rot.

-Extension and outreach. Develop and implement an effective Extension and outreach plan to disseminate results throughout Michigan and the North Central Region.

Accomplishments/Milestones

In 2007 rye was seeded at two research stations in the MSU system. These sites are being prepared for research trials in the summer of 2008.

Impacts and Contributions/Outcomes

No impact currently, project has only started.

Collaborators: