Not all crops in the Midwest are grown in the field, at least not in 50-plus-acre fields. Some crops in this part of the country are not grown in a field at all. Helping to illustrate that fact, the horticulture team from Iowa State University Extension will show how crops can be grown in greenhouses, on acreages, on lawns, and on water, also known as hydroponics. A team of specialists is on-site all three days of this year's show.
"We will be showcasing the diversity of horticulture," says Cindy Haynes, ISU Extension horticulture specialist. "All of these disciplines are part of horticulture, and each one offers farmers and landowners another opportunity to diversify their income."
One of the more unique features on display will be a small-scale hydroponics model, growing garden plants on water in a table-size container. Similar to a large fish tank, the lighted structure will include flowing water, with the plants growing on top.
"This is a high-tech way to grow some things indoors or in a greenhouse," Haynes says. "It has a much smaller footprint than a field or garden, and you can grow a lot of different plants this way." The water is recycled, and the overall setup and design is easy enough that most folks could build a similar unit at home, she says.
Haynes will also be discussing how to grow and produce cut flowers. Several cut flowers will be on display, sourced from local flower farms.
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