Iowa State University Fruit and Vegetable Field Day Is July 29

The horticulture team with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will hold the 2026 Fruit and Vegetable Field Day on Wednesday, July 29, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the ISU Horticulture Research Station in Ames.

The annual event will feature commercial production of vegetable and fruit crops sold through farmers markets, Community Supported Agriculture and wholesale. Participants will have an opportunity to observe research projects focusing on peppers, tomatoes, apples, organic pest management and the use of drones in horticultural crops.

“Growers from around the state will have the opportunity to learn about production practices for fruits and vegetables and understand critical practices for managing pests, soil fertility, crop yield, and quality,” said Ajay Nair, professor and chair of the Department of Horticulture at Iowa State. “The day will also provide a platform for faculty, extension agents, growers, consumers and other participants to interact and share challenges, concerns and opportunities in the area of fruit and vegetable production.”

This event is supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture and organized in partnership with the Iowa Specialty Crop Growers Association, Practical Farmers of Iowa and the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture.

The Horticulture Research Station is located at 55519, 170th Street, Ames. Following the completion of the field day, a meal will be provided.

Registration for this field day is available at no cost, but organizers ask that you register online before July 24 to ensure an accurate food count.