It is an industry second only to the auto industry in its contribution to the Gross National Product from the area as the Centre's name indicates our major mandates lie within the Greenhouse Vegetable area and in Processing Crops such as premium food grade soybeans, dry beans and field vegetables for domestic and export markets. In conjunction with the crop research programs, studies in plant protection and the preservation of soil and water resources promote sustainable agricultural practices. Summer's Sweetest Sweet corn is one of the most popular, fresh market vegetable crops for consumers in Ontario during the summer months. Over the past few years, plant breeders have introduced new types of sweet corn with higher sugar levels and better eating quality than older sweet corn varieties. Unfortunately, most of the current high-sugar corn varieties do not grow well when planted early in cold soils and so, they have not been used by growers in Essex county, who are interested in the early sweet corn market.
Plastic mulch is a clear plastic film which is placed on the soil surface.
The corn is planted through the mulch using specialized seeding equipment. Acting as a micro-greenhouse, the mulch promotes a warmer soil temperature beneath it. Soil moisture is also maintained under the plastic which improves the germination and early growth of the sweet corn crop. In experimental trials at Harrow, plastic mulch has advanced the harvest date of several sweet corn varieties by six to eight days, and has increased yields by up to 740 dozen per hectare. With a head start on the traditional season and more sweet corn to sell, Essex county growers are afforded higher profits and a reliable supply of high quality, early sweet corn for local consumers and other markets in the province.