High tunnels (unheated greenhouses) are a great way to extend the growing season. They are relatively inexpensive and straightforward to install. Farmers and homesteaders across New York have turned to high tunnels to increase the range of products they grow, lengthen the growing season, and maximize income. You can have ripe tomatoes in late May or greens into the early winter. There are grants available to erect high tunnels through the NRCS NY Seasonal High Tunnel Initiative. <\/p>\n
If you are considering installing a high tunnel at your farm, business or homestead, consider joining Cornell Cooperative Extension on Monday, Oct. 2, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tioga County offices to learn the best management practices for high tunnels. <\/p>\n
The focus will be on pest management, and the best defense against pests is a good offense – using good growing practices to minimize problems. Experts from Cornell University will be the instructors. There will also be a tour of Our Green Acres, a local farm that uses high tunnels to grow fruit and vegetables. <\/p>\n