By Andi Anderson
The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach horticulture team will host the 2026 Fruit and Vegetable Field Day on July 29 at the ISU Horticulture Research Station in Ames. The annual event is designed to help growers learn about the latest research, production techniques, and innovations in fruit and vegetable farming.
The field day will take place from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and will focus on the commercial production of fruits and vegetables marketed through farmers markets, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs, and wholesale channels. Participants will have the opportunity to explore a variety of research projects and gain practical knowledge that can be applied to their farming operations.
Attendees will observe ongoing studies involving peppers, tomatoes, apples, organic pest management strategies, and the use of drone technology in horticultural crop production. These demonstrations will highlight emerging practices and technologies that can improve efficiency, sustainability, and crop performance.
According to Ajay Nair, Professor and Chair of the Department of Horticulture at Iowa State University, the event provides valuable learning opportunities for growers and industry professionals.
“Growers from around the state will have the opportunity to learn about production practices for fruits and vegetables and understand critical practices for managing pests, soil fertility, crop yield, and quality,” said Ajay Nair, Professor and Chair of the Department of Horticulture at Iowa State. “The day will also provide a platform for faculty, extension agents, growers, consumers and other participants to interact and share challenges, concerns and opportunities in the area of fruit and vegetable production.”
In addition to educational presentations and field demonstrations, the event will encourage networking and discussion among growers, researchers, extension professionals, consumers, and agricultural organizations. Participants will be able to exchange ideas, discuss production challenges, and explore opportunities for improving fruit and vegetable farming systems.
The field day is supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture and is organized in partnership with the Iowa Specialty Crop Growers Association, Practical Farmers of Iowa, and the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture. These partnerships help strengthen educational outreach and support the advancement of specialty crop production.
The ISU Horticulture Research Station is located at 55519 170th Street in Ames, Iowa. Following the conclusion of the field day, attendees will be provided with a complimentary meal.
Registration for the event is free. However, organizers encourage participants to register online before July 24 to help ensure an accurate meal count. The field day offers a valuable opportunity for growers to gain practical insights, learn about current horticultural research, and connect with others involved in fruit and vegetable production.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables