Extending the Growing Season: Techniques and Tools

The video tutorial discusses season extension techniques to prolong the growing season using tools like row cover fabric, unheated greenhouses, cloches, and hot caps. These methods help protect plants from pests and temperature fluctuations, allowing for earlier planting and later harvesting. Key considerations include managing temperature, ventilation, humidity, and soil temperature to optimize plant growth.

What is the primary purpose of using row cover fabric in season extension?

• To provide shade for plants

• To protect plants from pests and enhance growth

• To increase soil moisture

• To reduce plant height

How does using bows or hoops with row cover fabric benefit plant growth?

• It increases soil moisture

• It keeps the fabric off the plants, preventing damage

• It reduces the need for watering

• It allows more sunlight to reach the plants

What is a key advantage of using unheated greenhouses or high tunnels?

• They require no maintenance

• They offer frost protection and warmer temperatures

• They allow for year-round growth of all crops

• They provide mechanical heating

Which crop was successfully grown in a high tunnel despite not being ideal for the region?

• Melons

• Tomatoes

• Peppers

• Cucumbers

What is the function of cloches in season extension?

• To increase temperature around individual plants

• To provide shade

• To reduce soil moisture

• To prevent plant flowering

Why is ventilation important in season extension techniques?

• To increase humidity

• To prevent disease and ensure strong plant growth

• To reduce soil temperature

• To increase plant height

What should be monitored to ensure rapid growth of vegetables in protected environments?

• Soil temperature

• Plant height

• Leaf color

• Root length