Horticulture Unit
The University Farm serves as a laboratory for students learning about horticulture, natural resources conservation, soil science, biological engineering and landscape architecture. For more about education in these areas, check the curricula in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Design.
Research and Engagement
Horticultural research at the University Farm has helped many North Carolina farmers transition from tobacco to alternative crops, or diversify into specialty varieties catering to niche markets.
Following are some of the products and practices that farmers have learned from recent research at the University Farm:
- Cut-flower production
- Asian vegetables
- Seedless watermelons
- Extended season tomatoes
- Plasticulture and drip irrigation
- Shiitake mushrooms
- Conservation tillage
Exotic Mushrooms
One of the most popular new ventures for limited resource farmers has been shiitake mushroom cultivation outdoors on logs for seasonal production, and, more recently, indoor growing for high yield, year round production. The University Farm demonstrates both techniques.
Small farmers interested in learning more about growing shiitake or other exotic mushrooms may contact Omon Isikhuemhen, Ph.D., at omon@ncat.edu.
