by Chris Kick

Not all crops in the Midwest are grown in the field, at least not in 50-plus-acre fields. In fact, 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 are 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.”

Hydroponics exhibit

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.

EDUCATION IN BLOOM: Learn how to grow cut flowers from horticulture specialist Cindy Haynes with ISU Extension at the Farm Progress Show. Several types of cut flowers will be on display, sourced from local flower farms.

“This is basically 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.

Step onto field

In the outdoor part of the display, turfgrass specialist Adam Thoms at ISU Extension will demonstrate good sod and lawn-care techniques on a miniature Iowa State football field, complete with line markers and goal posts.

People can have their picture taken on the field, while also exploring the potential of sod and asking questions of trained lawn-care specialists.

“There is definitely a demand for the lawn-care business — whether it’s people wanting to know more about how to improve their own lawns or looking for a side job of taking care of someone else’s lawn,” Thoms says. “Plus, about every town in Iowa has a public space or a golf course, so there is a lot of interest in turfgrass care.”

Going organic

Kathleen Delate, an organic specialist at ISU Extension, will be on hand to discuss the opportunities in organic agriculture.

“Organic ag is growing in Iowa and in the U.S., so we hope to let folks know about the excellent opportunities to farm with less inputs and secure greater returns with organic premium prices,” Delate says. “I am excited to be a resource for folks interested in transitioning to organic ag, including providing information on the cost-share programs USDA has for transitioning farmers.”

Haynes says it’s been several years since the horticulture team has exhibited at the show, and the specialists are enthusiastic to be back. They promise to offer a “hands-on sensory experience for all who stop by,” she says.

There will be plenty of things to see, touch and smell, with experts who can answer everything from questions about home gardening and lawn care to commercial ventures.

The Iowa State University exhibit space can be found at the corner of Seventh Street and Central Avenue.

Haynes can be reached at 515-294-4006 or [email protected]. Thoms is available at 515-294-1957 or [email protected].

Kick is a communications specialist at Iowa State University Extension.