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Horticulture Display to Feature Plants Growing on Water, Turfgrass and Organic Agriculture

By Chris Kick

Not all crops in the Midwest are grown in the field, at least not in 50-plus acre fields. In fact, some crops in this part of the country are not grown in a field at all.

Helping to illustrate that fact, the horticulture team from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will show how crops can be grown in greenhouses, on acreages, on lawns and on water (known as hydroponics).

A team of specialists will be on site all three days of this year’s Farm Progress Show Aug. 27-29 near Boone, and their display will have something for everyone.

“We will be showcasing the diversity of horticulture,” said Cindy Haynes, professor and extension specialist in horticulture at Iowa State. “All of these disciplines are part of horticulture and each one offers farmers and landowners another opportunity to diversify their income.”

Hydroponics exhibit

One of the more unique features on display will be a small-scale hydroponics model, growing garden plants on water in a table-size container. Similar to a “large fish tank,” the lighted structure will include flowing water, with the plants all growing on top.

“This is basically a high-tech way to grow some things indoors or in a greenhouse,” said Haynes. “It has a much smaller footprint than a field or garden, and you can grow a lot of different plants this way.”

The water is recycled and the overall setup and design is easy enough that most folks could build a similar unit at home, she said.

She will also be discussing how to grow and produce cut flowers. Several cut flowers will be on display, sourced from local flower farms.

Step onto the field

In the outdoor part of the display, turfgrass specialist Adam Thoms will demonstrate good sod and lawncare techniques on a mini Iowa State football field, complete with line markers and goal posts.

People can have their picture taken on the field, while also exploring the potential of sod and asking questions of trained lawncare specialists.

“There is definitely a demand for the lawncare business, whether it’s people wanting to know more about how to improve their own lawns or looking for a side job of taking care of someone else’s lawn,” said Thoms. “Plus, about every town in Iowa has a public space or a golf course, so there is a lot of interest in turfgrass care.”

Kathleen Delate, professor and extension organic specialist at Iowa State, will be on-hand to discuss the opportunities in organic agriculture.

“Organic ag is growing in Iowa and in the U.S., so we hope to let folks know about the excellent opportunities to farm with less inputs and secure greater returns with organic premium prices,” she said. “I am excited to be a resource for folks interested in transitioning to organic ag, including providing information on the cost-share programs USDA has for transitioning farmers.”

Haynes said it’s been several years since the horticulture team has exhibited at the show and the specialists are enthusiastic to be back. They promise to offer a “hands-on sensory experience for all who stop by.”

There will be plenty of things to see, touch and smell, with experts who can answer everything from questions about home gardening and lawncare, to commercial ventures.

The Iowa State University exhibit space can be found at the corner of 7th Street and Central Avenue.

Cindy Haynes can be reached at 515-294-4006 or chaynes@iastate.edu.

Adam Thoms is available at 515-294-1957 or athoms@iastate.edu.

Source : iastate.edu

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