Getting to the root of vegetable production

CAFRE is currently delivering a training programme aimed at existing and new vegetable growers. A series of recent workshops involving technical and practical demonstrations have been delivered on a range of topics related to vegetable production.

The first workshop delivered by Elaine Chapman of Supply Chain Development Branch, DARD outlined the range of markets for fresh and processed vegetables and Trevor Gabbie, an established producer from Comber, illustrated the topic of plant raising.

During the second workshop, the range of field equipment needed for efficient vegetable growing was outlined by David Morrow while Dr Anne Stone, Edible Crops Development Adviser, Greenmount Campus introduced trainees to the principles of crop nutrition.

There were also three practical field visits to see how commercial growers undertake their own production schedules, each of which specialise in particular crops.

One new entrant, Kevin Brown of Bellaghy, was interested to learn about the volumes of edible crops imported which could be grown here. He welcomed the chance to see all aspects of vegetable growing from planting to packing and said, “I would be confident to start growing vegetables in a small way if I can find an opening in the market.” Some of those attending are existing small scale growers who wish to expand. Michael Trainor of Downpatrick said, “I’ve always grown a few vegetables but am keen to see what different techniques I might use to improve production.  Everything was interesting, and I was specially taken by a simple system we saw on a farm visit for keeping seed trays off the ground which we could adopt ourselves.” Justin Nichol of Belfast explained, “I may soon be involved in two projects for vegetable growing in the city. The course gave me access to the information and contacts I needed to begin the process.”

People interested in commercial vegetable production listening to John Herron, Comber discussing the skill of cabbage growing.

Robin McKee, Comber explains how his carrot crop will be covered with straw to protect from frost.