One of the ways that small farmers are extending their growing season in Virginia, is with the use of what are called ‘high tunnels’. For those unfamiliar with the term, a high tunnel is plastic covered tubular steel structure (similar to a greenhouse) that can protect plants from extreme temperatures or pests.
Not only can farmers more closely monitor the conditions and nutrition of their plants … they can also extend the Virginia growing season. That allows a greater variety of local produce, even when the weather is not ideal.
And yes, that’s how a papaya (a very temperature-sensitive plant) was able to be grown for the first time in Virginia last year! You can learn more about this program being promoted by Virginia State University horticulturalists HERE.
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