For The Daily Southerner
As farmers look to expand or transition to new commodities, cucumbers offer an alternative for the land once reserved for tobacco.
Arriving in North Carolina as early as the mid 1500s, the cucumber has risen in prominence and is now grown in the State for the “fresh” and “pickling” market. Our local growers supply cucumbers for both markets and this has helped to rank North Carolina among the top four producing states in the nation. The estimated production value for cucumbers in the state was $25 million in 2009.
This educational meeting is open to all farmers or producers who currently grow or are interested in growing cucumbers. Following a meal provided by Parker’s Barbecue, a group of experts from N.C. State University will deliver the latest research based information on pest and disease management, weed control and take a look at hand versus mechanized harvest of cucumbers.
Among the list of speakers, Dr. Frank Louws and Dr. Peter Ojiambo, assistant professors of plant pathology at NCSU will take a closer look at downy mildew and introduce the Downy Mildew Forecast Web site.
The meeting will be from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at the Nash County Ag Center. The facility is at 1006 Eastern Ave., Nashville.
There is no cost to attend; but, participants need to reserve seating by calling the Nash County Center at 459-9810.
