Commercial fruit growing guides
Extension fruit and vegetable production educators and specialists work with growers to enhance profitability, add value, and maintain food security through local production and marketing of fruit and vegetable crops in Minnesota.
We work with:
- Commercial vegetable producers.
- Commercial fruit producers.
- The commercial processing industry.
- New immigrant farmers.
In partnership with other organizations and commodity groups, we conduct research and communicate research-based information to growers throughout Minnesota.
We do this by developing and producing educational programs, field days, grower roundtables, print and web publications, newsletters and radio talks, and through one-on-one consultation.
Fruit growing guides
Hail netting for apple orchards — Hail netting is an effective tool to protect apple orchards from both hail damage and major insect pests when draped and secured around rows of apple trees.
- Grape IPM Guide for Minnesota Producers (PDF 2011)
- Tissue and soil nutrient testing for cold climate grapes
- Video: Education and research to grow the Minnesota wine grape industry (2:29)
Organic High Tunnel Raspberry Production (PDF) 2021
General guidance
Manuals and guides for beginning commercial growers, high-tunnel growers, nutrient management and soil health.
- Minnesota fruit and vegetable growers manual for the beginning grower
Risk management, business planning and start-up, and marketing. (PDF) - Minnesota high tunnel production manual for commercial growers, 2nd Edition
Risk management, structures, the high tunnel environment, cultural practices, crop production, crops, and finances for growing in high tunnels in Minnesota. (PDF)
- Foliar nutrient testing
There are 14 plant nutrients from the soil that are considered essential for the growth of all plants. Testing plant leaves for their nutrient content indicates whether the plants have optimal levels of these nutrients, or if fertilizer is needed. - Maintaining soil fertility in an organic fruit and vegetable crops system
Add amendments based on soil test results, crop requirements, nutrient content, available sources, potential improvements, and cost–benefit analysis. - Nutrient management for commercial fruit and vegetable crops in Minnesota
Supplemental fertilizer applications become necessary when the soil cannot supply the level of nutrient required. - Nutrient cycling and maintaining soil fertility in fruit and vegetable crop systems
Understanding nutrient cycles helps to maintain soil fertility and protect water resources.