November 9th - 14th

 

November 9th

This photo depicts a tobacco Hornworm found on one of our tomato plants. The Hornworm larvae are cause for concern when found on tomato plants because they are known to feed on the unripe fruit, which depletes our overall crop yield. Hornworm pest control is often conducted through parasitoid wasps, who act as a biological control agent. In attempts to alleviate the pressure of this pest, we also will hand pick them off of the plants.

Novmeber 9th

The plot in the photo was once occupied by buckwheat, which we used as a cover crop. After we harvested and mowed the buckwheat, Kiara spread rye grass in the same plot as a second cover crop. We chose rye grass as it has many benefits acting as a cover crop such as erosion reduction, soil organic matter build up, and it can increase the rooting depth of crops such as soybean or corn. 

November 9th

This photo depicts the cocoons of the parasitoid wasp on a hornworm. The wasp will lay her eggs under the skin of the hornworm. When the larvae hatch, they feed on the hornworm and spin their cocoons on the outside of the skin. Once the adult wasps emerge from the cocoon, the hornworm will die.

November 14th

Our marigolds are growing well and producing many flowers. The marigold is seen here attracting pollinators to our farm, which is essential for long-term success in production. In addition, you can see both ripened and unripened tomatoes in the background!