Thompson research farm field day

By Blake Jackson

On August 21, 2024, the Thompson Research Farm in Freeville, NY, will host an engaging and informative field day from 5:00 to 8:00 PM. This free event, open to the public, promises a comprehensive exploration of vegetable crops, offering valuable insights and hands-on experiences.

The evening will begin with registration and check-in for DEC Pesticide Credits from 5:00 to 5:10 PM.

Following this, Chris Smart will lead a vegetable disease field walk, focusing on the identification and management of key diseases such as cucurbit downy mildew, cucurbit bacterial wilt, Phytophthora blight, and late blight. Attendees will gain practical knowledge on symptoms and control strategies essential for effective disease management.

Michael Mazourek will then present a showcase of pepper, squash, and cucumber varieties. Participants can explore approximately 300 pepper varieties from around the globe, alongside novel winter and summer squash types, and downy mildew-resistant cucumbers developed at Cornell.

Greg Vogel will follow with a tomato variety showcase, featuring trials of 32 pre-commercial and commercial tomato varieties from nine companies, including a presentation of Cornell's breeding plots.

Walter DeJong will conclude the variety showcases with a potato tour, covering yield trials of both chipping and fresh-market potatoes developed at Cornell, as well as varieties from the Northeast Regional trial.

The event will also provide 1.75 DEC Pesticide Credits in categories 10, 1a, and 23. Attendees are invited to enjoy a complimentary dinner and vegetable variety tasting from 6:55 to 8:00 PM.

To ensure proper planning, registration by August 14 is recommended. For more details and to register, please refer to the registration form provided.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-livingimages