more... > Hammond > Publications > Vegetables > Biofumigation Studies in other states have suggested that cover crops, especially brassicas, can provide some of the benefits of a fumigant. A study was conducted at the Hammond Research Station to evaluate this concept. Tractors for Vegetable Production [Image: older offset vegetable tractor] Vegetable growers have many choices in tractors, ranging from older, smaller tractors to large, new tractors. Many are designed specifically for vegetable work. Recommendations for Optimal Use of a Garden Seeder [Image: plate with blocked cells] A seeder can be a tremendous aid in planting a vegetable garden. With it, you can stand and walk along the row pushing a seeder instead of having to make a furrow with a hoe, going back along the row bent over dropping seeds, and then covering and packing the row. Removing and Collecting Plastic Mulch [Image: Plastic mulch lifter] The use of plastic mulch is a common practice for strawberry and vegetable growers, but there are two major problems with plastic mulch: it is expensive to install and at some point it has to be removed from the field. Several machines are available that help simplify the removal of the mulch.  more articles... Precision Sweep Cultivation for Vegetable Crops [Image: Precision cultivation using cone guide wheels] Cultivation is essential for nearly all commercial vegetable crops since herbicide choices are limited and vegetable crops cannot tolerate much weed competition. A basic sweep cultivator can do an excellent job of precision cultivation if set up and equipped properly. Precision Cultural System (PCS) for Commercial Vegetable Crops [Image: Shaping precision beds] Growing commercial vegetables is different from growing agronomic crops and requires a different approach to equipment. A precision cultural system (PCS) developed by the LSU AgCenter can make commercial vegetable production much easier. Belt Seeders for Commercial Vegetable Crops [Image: Metering unit for belt seeder] Many years of testing at the LSU AgCenter have demonstrated that precision belt seeders deliver the best seed spacing uniformity of any type of vegetable seeder – if the seeds are spherical (round) or nearly so. Belt seeders are versatile and can meter a wide range of seed types and sizes. Rotary Tiller/Cultivator for Precision Cultivation [Image: Precision rotary tiller - cultivator] A standard sweep cultivator can do an excellent job of cultivating vegetable crops once the plants reach 4-6 inches, but it must run very slowly in small crops (1-2 inches) and has a tendency to throw soil over the crop plants. An alternative is a rotary tiller/cultivator. Precision Vertical Plate Seeder for Vegetables [Image: Vertical plate seeder] Precision vertical plate seeders are available for planting many vegetable crops. These seeders use a vertical metal plate with the cells (holes) on the edge. Precision Bed Shaping for Commercial Vegetable Production [Image: Bedding prior to bed shaping] A key component of a precision cultural system is precision bed shaping. A precisely shaped bed is essential to locate the crop row properly when planting and to provide a basis for guidance of subsequent operations. Flame Weed Control [Image: photo of cross-row burner] Flame weed control can be an effective adjunct to cultivation for some vegetable crops and some weeds. Flame weed control fits especially well in organic operations. Pendulum-action Spreaders for Commercial Vegetables [Image: spout on pendulum spreader] Most commercial vegetable growers apply granular fertilizer in a preplant operation, and many also make sidedress applications of granular fertilizer. An excellent way to apply granular materials in either a broadcast or banding mode is with a pendulum-action spreader. Openers, Coverers and Presswheels for Precision Vegetable Seeders [Image: Openers for Stanhay seeder] All vegetable seeders require openers, coverers and presswheels to provide a furrow for the seeds and to then cover the seeds and assure proper soil contact. These devices must be matched to the soil type and condition for optimum germination and seedling vigor. Laying Plastic Mulch [Image: Shaping bed prior to mulch laying] The use of plastic mulch is a common practice for nearly all strawberry growers and most vegetable growers. Installing the mulch is easier than it used to be when mulch was installed by hand, but it can be challenging. More...