Multidisciplinary assessment of organic production systems for baby lettuce on muck soil

Description

Most organic baby greens consumed in Canada are imported. This project was conducted by a combined team of specialists in entomology, weed biology, water management, and crop management.  Its aim was to assess the impact of cropping practices on baby lettuce yields and quality on muck soil.

Objective(s)

Assess the impact of cropping practices on baby lettuce yields and quality on muck soil. Specific objectives in each field:

• Weed biology:
  • Evaluate the effect of cover crops and organic inputs on weed populations
  • Optimize the stale seedbed and deferred seeding techniques
• Entomology: Test trap crop mixes to limit flea beetle damage by:
  • Evaluating the attractiveness of a variety of trap crop mixes on different flea beetle species
  • Evaluating how well trap crop mixes reduce flea beetle damage
• Crop management and productivity: Determine the effect of cover crops and organic inputs on yields