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Muscatine Island Research and Demonstration Farm

Strip-tillage and Row Cover Use in Organically and Conventionally Grown Muskmelon

Authors: Jennifer L. Tillman (Iowa State University) , Ajay Nair (Iowa State University) , Jean C. Batzer (Iowa State University) , Mark L. Gleason (Iowa State University)

  • Strip-tillage and Row Cover Use in Organically and Conventionally Grown Muskmelon

    Muscatine Island Research and Demonstration Farm

    Strip-tillage and Row Cover Use in Organically and Conventionally Grown Muskmelon

    Authors: , , ,

Abstract

Growing muskmelon in a more sustainable way involves multiple management practices. Cover crops often are incorporated into the soil before planting the cash crop. However, they also can be “rolled” and used as a ground cover throughout the growing season. The cash crop is planted in small, tilled strips within the residue. This “strip-tillage” technique provides a weed-controlling, moisture-retaining mat that does not need to be removed at the season’s end, as plastic mulch does. The reduction in tillage can improve soil structure and health.

Keywords: Plant Pathology and Microbiology, Horticulture

How to Cite:

Tillman, J. L., Nair, A., Batzer, J. C. & Gleason, M. L., (2014) “Strip-tillage and Row Cover Use in Organically and Conventionally Grown Muskmelon”, Iowa State University Research and Demonstration Farms Progress Reports 2013(1).

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Published on
2014-01-01

Peer Reviewed