The Pre-sidedress soil nitrogen test has been successfully applied to sweet corn production for this purpose. Research has been initiated to develop and test PSNT critical values for fresh market cabbage. A research survey was administered to learn current practices in the areas of manure management, irrigation methods and post-harvest handling. This survey was sent to 600 vegetable and fruit growers of NYS and 220 responded. The results of this survey will help define new research and extension programs in FVS, microbiology and animal science with the goal of minimizing risks of microbial contamination on farm.
Asian vegetables continue to gain popularity among consumers nationwide.
The main constraint to production is a physiological disorder, pepper spot. The cause of pepper spot remains unknown, however it is suspected to be due to nitrite toxicity in the petioles. We are initiating greenhouse and field studies to identify causative factors and potential cultural practices to reduce pepper spot on this crop. This project is in collaboration with CCE educators, industry reps, growers and other vegetable specialists in Florida and California. Butternut squash yields are adversely affected by defoliation during the season.