From Cornell University Agricultural Experiment Station organic farming coordinator Betsy Leonard:
Whether you are a backyard gardener or farm a few acres, join us Sunday, Sept. 8, at Cornell’s Thompson Research Farm for an Organic Farm and Garden Open House. This event is hosted by Cornell University and Northeast Organic Farming Association of N.Y.
For more than a decade, the Thompson Research Farm has been a testing ground for research in organic crop production, from cover crops to breeding hardy new vegetable varieties. We’re celebrating with an afternoon of fun for the whole family where you can also learn how to improve your growing practices.
The field day will feature hands-on activities led by faculty and staff researchers on the latest techniques and proven practices for organic gardeners and small farmers, including:
- Weed and water management using cover crops and mulches
- Trickle irrigation and hand tools for gardeners
- Plant variety selection and breeding for disease resistance
- Saving, cleaning and storing seeds
- Composting and building healthy soil
- Enhancing summer’s bounty through pepper roasting
- Activities and games just for kids
The event is free and will run from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. The Thompson Research Farm, part of the Cornell University Agricultural Experiment Station and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, is located at 133 Fall Creek Rd., Freeville, NY.
Or contact Betsy Leonard at (607) 423-8366 or bai1@cornell.edu