RESEARCH AND EXTENSION PRIORITIES TO ENSURE ADAPTATION OF HIGH TUNNELS AND BIODEGRADABLE PLASTIC MULCH IN THE UNITED STATES

High tunnels and plastic mulch are successfully used throughout the world to increase productivity of high-value specialty vegetable and fruit crops. Currently these technologies are not widely used in the Pacific Northwest (PNW), Mid-South and Southeast regions of the United States. In order to better understand the current status of grower knowledge and use of high tunnels, plastic mulch and biodegradable mulch, a key informant survey was conducted in Washington, Tennessee and Texas. Of the 34 farmer respondents, 38% used high tunnels to produce 27 crops, primarily tomatoes, lettuce/salad greens, and peppers. All farmers who used high tunnels were either satisfied or very satisfied with them; however, wind damage and humidity/condensation were main concerns. Most farmers (79%) wanted to learn more about high tunnels, especially the specific crop production practices and structures best suited to their needs. Three quarters of the farmers surveyed had used plastic mulch, primarily for weed control for tomatoes, strawberries, peppers, and cucurbits, and most (64%) were very satisfied with the results. However, plastic mulch removal and disposal were a primary concern. One quarter of the farmers had used biodegradable plastic mulch, primarily for tomatoes and cucurbit crops, but they were not satisfied due to unpredictable and incomplete biodegradation. Most farmers lacked knowledge and needed more information about biodegradable mulch products and their availability and cost. This information is being used to guide a multi-state specialty crops team investigating the adaptation and economic feasibility of high-value specialty vegetable and fruit production with biodegradable mulches and high tunnels.