AMES, Iowa—The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Commercial Horticulture program will hold the 2026 High Tunnel Short Course at the Iowa Arboretum in Madrid, Iowa, on Nov. 11 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 pm. Commercial growers, as well as those interested in high tunnel production for fruit and vegetable crops, are invited to learn about high tunnel production, connect with fellow growers and explore the arboretum.
Growing specialty crops in a high tunnel structure offers numerous benefits for growers, including extended growing seasons, improved yields, minimized disease and pest pressure and controlled water application. Dan Fillius, horticulture field specialist for commercial vegetables with ISU Extension and Outreach, said this year’s event is a valuable opportunity for Iowa’s growers.
“Growers who struggle to fine-tune their vegetable production will leave this course with new ideas for getting the most out of their tunnels,” he said. “You’ll hear practical advice from successful growers in Vermont and Iowa, as well as technical information on tomato fertilizer needs from Judson Reid, a vegetable extension specialist from Cornell.”
Event speakers will share their insights, experiences and research on high tunnel production with attendees. Topics include fertility management for tunnel tomatoes, year-round tunnel production in the North, tips for building tunnels and growing tunnel crops and more.
Participants must register online to attend the course. The registration fee is $10, which covers lunch expenses. The Iowa Arboretum is located at 1875 Peach Ave, Madrid.
For more information and a full agenda, visit the 2026 High Tunnel Short Course webpage or contact Dan Fillius at fillius@iastate.edu.
(contributed press release, ISUANR)
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