News

Iowa fruit and vegetable week recognized June 22-26, 2020.

Iowa’s commercial horticulture industry contributes $48 million to the state’s economy each year and provides fresh fruits and vegetables to Iowa consumers. Recognizing the value of this segment of agriculture, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds has designated June 22-26, 2020, as Iowa Fruit and Vegetable Week.

Farmers market shopper purchasing from a table of vegetables.

Local foods producers and consumers who rely on Iowa’s farmers markets for food are able to conduct business as of April 24, according to a decision by Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds.

Greenhouse full of healthy crops.

The horticulture team at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is debuting a new video series with detailed information on vegetable production and management in Iowa.

Close-up hand of a business man using a laptop while flying on an airplane near the window.

Now is the time to get creative. Travel experts predict a pent-up demand to “hit the road” as soon as people are able to get out. Are you ready? Here are ten inexpensive ideas your business and community can use right now to help capture that eager market, avoid a tourism industry wipeout, and build long-term success.

Ajay Nair speaking to a group of people in a field.

The disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic are many, but one thing that hasn’t changed for Iowa’s small farmers is the need for timely, accurate information.

Close up of Chinese chestnuts.

What is Chinese Chestnut?

Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissima) is a deciduous tree that produces edible nuts in September and October. In Iowa Chinese chestnuts are grown more frequently in the southern half of the state.

Smiling man with cut Christmas tree slung over shoulder.

The weekend after Thanksgiving is traditionally when most Christmas tree buying occurs. Whether you cut your own tree or buy a pre-cut tree there are several things to consider before buying and when selecting a fresh tree. Horticulture specialists with Iowa State University offer tips to make the most of your fresh tree.

Person holding tablet as people with baskets full of fruit and vegetables walk towards them.

Whether your agritourism destination includes livestock, food, seasonal activities, or farm stays, a successful marketing plan will expand your customer base and ultimately lead to additional revenue. This article will give you 5 steps to help improve your farm marketing.

Tomatoes and green beans in baskets for purchase.

How can a vegetable farmer know which crops are profitable enough to keep growing? Can marketing costs be analyzed by sales channel? They can with the right enterprise budgets. Learn more in this article. 

Visitors can learn to milk a goat and sample goat gelato at Honey Creek Creamery.

Previous issues of the Visit Iowa Farms newsletter highlighted the first three steps a business must take to provide excellent service to its customers. The final steps are: step four, Make it SATISFYING, and step five, Make it MEMORABLE.