WVU Organic Research Project

Research

Initial studies examine the transition from conventional to organic production – a crucial period for building the high soil fertility and beneficial organism levels found on organic farms.

Studies in market garden and small farm-scale trials compare high and low input production systems in terms of yield, soil fertility, pest and beneficial organism levels, and profitability. Sheep graze selected small farm plots.

Studies in the farm’s established apple orchard examine changes in pest, disease, and beneficial organism levels during the transition to organic production.

Additional experiments evaluate effects of companion planting, mulching, and compost use – practices widely used by organic growers.

College of Agriculture,
Forestry and
Consumer
Sciences

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Michael Bomford & Thomas P. Batchelor