Training in protected agriculture:
After completing the course, and once trainees
have returned to their home countries, some of the instructors will perform a
follow up by this blog to evaluate the field work undertaken by trainees in their country of
origin.
Please write your contributions, thanks.
Dear participants in the course of agriculture in the CRESIAP. Receive a warm greeting of all that we are part of this institution (Felipe, David, Sebastián, Eduardo, José Luis, Jaime, Cuquita, Veronica and Carlos).
ResponderEliminarWe remind you that the training project comprises 3 stages:
1 stage: face to face in the CRESIAP
2 stage: online tracking, and
3. stage of field visits to the projects identified by the participants in their countries.
The first stage was successfully evaluated by the participants and we consider that it had complied with the objectives set out for the same.
For the second stage, in addition to the email, a blog was installed on the website of the CRESIAP to facilitate communication and identify the important projects for each country. However, now we have no information of you.
On September 17 the projects must be set to visit in the 3rd stage, therefore it is necessary that you inform us if you have defined one or more projects and their progress.
The sequence of actions for the development of protected agriculture projects would be the following:
• Identify likely targets of production (export, local market or consumption)
• Identify which products can be marketed favorably.
• Designing the type of structure most suitable, depending on the environmental conditions of the area in that it is intended to produce. (Greenhouse, Macro-tunel, Casa-malla, or mixed)
• Identify the quality of the irrigation water and soil.
• Identify local materials that fulfil the conditions suitable as a substrate.
Please inform us about it, either on the blog or via email, as it will determine which CRESIAP continue to strengthen their capacities in protected agriculture in their countries.
Best regards.
Ing. Carlos Hernández Aguirre
CRESIAP.
Greetings to you from St. Vincent. In regard to the project I met with the IICA representative from St. Vincent in regards to the trip as a whole and the project. he ask me to discuss the project with the Vegetable specialist in St. Vincent. I wrote up the project and forward it to the person for him to insert the cost of the materials ect. however when I spoke with him last he is still working on it.
ResponderEliminarTomorrow Monday the 15th I am schedule to meet the chief agricultural office and the IICA representative in regard to the project, or an alternate one and the way going forward. will give you an update after the meeting about the decision taken and the way going forward. ...
Hello Felipe
ResponderEliminarGreetings from Trinidad and Tobago. How are you? Just received your email. I will email the details of the project next week. I'm sorry that I did not get to see you before I left. I left a Trinidad key chain for you with Veronica. I can't wait for the next football match with you guys. I will always remember the day you took me to purchase the suitcase and hat. I also bought a Mexico flag. I hope that you will be able to visit my country to see our progress in greenhouse production. Thanks very much for all the help. Keep well my friend.
Kind Regards
Good day CRESIAP,
ResponderEliminarThank you for the reminder concerning the other two(2) stages of the protected agriculture training course held in Guadalajara.
Be advised that I was unable to access the online blog despite enquiring from the other participants concerning the same. Here is my google address ...mauriceminnis@gmail.com... if the bog is working please connect me to it.
For the third stage, I have identified a husband/wife team who uses an improvised form of protected agriculture here on my island.
they produce pineapples, hot and green (sweet) peppers, okras, and other seasonal vegetables under black mesh covering.
growing medium consist of organic soil
at present there is no substrate used in production though there have been suggestions of coconut coir and gravel for use in the future
irrigation at present is done manually, though there is hope of a drip irrigation system being installed in the near future
I will submit a more detailed report on this project as well as the challenges faced in protected agriculture for my island before the deadline of the 17th.
thank you .
Hello Felipe
ResponderEliminarHow are you my friend? I'm submitting my project proposal to you guys together with a photo of the greenhouse at present. It presently needs refurbishing. I have scheduled to begin the project in November 2014 as this is the period when funding or releases will be attained. The market that I will be targeting in the research will be the local market. I will begin to make use of the blog for tracking of my progress as well as to get feedback from CRESIAP with regards to the work being conducted. You know every time some one ask me how was the trip to Mexico my response is that I met the most kindness people in the world. Keep well.
Kind Regards
RABINDRA RAMJATTAN PROJECT PROPOSAL
ResponderEliminar1.0 TITLE: Evaluation of two varieties of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) utilizing different media under local greenhouse conditions.
2.0 OBJECTIVES: 2.1.1 Evaluation of growth, yield and quality of fruits. 2.1.2 Evaluation of different growing media (pro-mix and sharp sand).
3.0 MATERIALS AND METHOD
3.1 LOCATION AND SEASON
The experiment is to be conducted at the Research Division, Central Experiment Station, Centeno during the period November, 2014 to March, 2015. The greenhouse to be utilized is 15.4 meters length x 9.4 meters width and is located east of the station. It has a split arch design and the area where it is located has a flat topography. Plastic of 6 mil thickness for covering and mesh for side walls is to be utilized.
Bent Symes:
ResponderEliminarMr Felipe, how are you and the other members of the CRESIAP family? Do hope all is well. I would also like to apologise for my late response. A report was submitted to Ministry of Agriculture outlining key areas of interest. A press conference will be held on September 24th, 2014 to discuss the Mexican Training programmes. A sensitization training program on Protected Agriculture will be held for Extension staff on Environmental Management, Crop Management, Major pest and diseases in vegetables, Organic and Bio fertilizers etc. The development of handbooks, manuals and brochures particularly on Organic farming and Bio fertilizers will be done. The establishment of a demonstration plot/structure illustrating new protected structures(Hybrid design). The idea is to re-examine structural designs, plastic coverings, production, Temperatures, Relative humidity, incidence of pest and diseases etc Another important consideration, is the development of a project looking at the cultivation of high value commodities under insect screen houses. Commodities such as Papaya, hot peppers and High breed Flowers. The idea is reintroduce large scale papaya and hot pepper production for the local and export market. Additionally, I propose a research exchange program similar to that of St. Lucia and Mexico.Wherby, technical officers spend three months in Mexico, specializing in a crop of choice, with the intent of continuing the work with structures hopefully donated by the Mexican Government.I am encouraging the Ministry of Agriculture/Government of Dominica to foster an even closer relationship with the Mexican Government as Dominica serves to benefit immensely from further technical training programs.
In conclusion, I would like to thank the CRESIAP family and the IICA Representatives, for this very informative training program.
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad greenhouse progress.
ResponderEliminar17/09/2014: Submitted project proposal to Felipe via email. The project will involve evaluation of two varieties of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) utilizing different media under local greenhouse conditions.
18//09/2014: Visited and evaluated greenhouse structure at my research station where the project will be conducted. It presently needs refurbishing and cleaning. I also held a meeting with my supervisor with respect to my modus operandi (method of operation). I am also presently liaising with the Support Services Section of my Research Division to provide the labour required for the refurbishment and cleaning.
19/09/2014: Initiated cleaning and sanitation of the research greenhouse.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
ResponderEliminarhello veronica and everyone, first thing is I do not think I am on the blog because when the invitation was sent could not get into my gmail account, when I was able to the invitation expire so another one will have to be send for me to accept.
in terms of the project, I met with IIA representative here about submitting one. he advise that I meet with the vegetable specialist here in our ministry of agriculture since they are currently working on a project that involve greenhouse and will have suppliers, cost etc. on hand.
I wrote up a project and submit it to the vegetable person, listing materials and everything so he would have include the cost, but he never get around to it. what I had wrote about was for the complete cover of a green house structure on a farmer holding. the structure is already up, and the project would have include getting the green house up and operational, and includes footbath, use of hooks and rings, planting in bags, drip irrigation etc.
we had a meeting on the 15th September, with IICA and the chief agricultural officer, this includes all the persons who went to mexico for the various courses. We all had to say what we thing about the program and say what our propose project is . They listen to what we all propose but he chief said, all the projects sounds ambitious but they want us to do something that can be implement in the shortest time possible and what will not cost much.
yesterday I visit a private farm run by a board of directors, that have about 8-10 greenhouses , 2 of which is fully protected to see what can be implemented there from what I learn. I was told that I have to speak to the another person, who was not present, but the problem there is that all the green houses are empty and they are thinking about redesigning them which would have work out fine for me if I am thinking about long tem plan, but remember I have to do something that can be evaluate if the persons from mexico choose St. Vincent to visit.
I schedule a visit to visit another Government Station to look at the green house to see if there is any thing simple that I can implement in the short time. so that it for now from me, still have to look for something simple and not to expensive that can be implemented soonest.
love you all.....much hugs
Sophia Henry
Felipe,
ResponderEliminarPlease see attachment of the points regarding the email that was sent from cresiap.
Please feel free to contact me for further clarification.
Kishma and I will be having a meeting with director of agriculture on Wednesday 24th September to discuss these proposed details.
Regards
Craig M. Thomas
National Specialist
Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture
Old Parham Road and Mahico Drive
St. John's
Antigua
On September 17 the projects must be set to visit in the 3rd stage, therefore it is necessary that you inform us if you have defined one or more projects and their progress.
ResponderEliminarThe sequence of actions for the development of protected agriculture projects would be the following:
• Identify likely targets of production :local market and local consumption)
• Identify which products can be marketed favorably: All types of vegetables such as cucumbers, tomato, sweet pepper, herbs and spices.
• Designing the type of structure most suitable, depending on the environmental conditions of the area in that it is intended to produce: Macro-tunel, Casa-malla, and mixed can be used. There have been three (3) sites identified to carry out the project.
1. A school which have a macro-tunnel with casa malla.
2. An experimental station which has a green
• Identify the quality of the irrigation water and soil: Water availability fluctuates rapidly especially if the main water source is via the local water company. This will depend on where we will be executing the project.
• Identify local materials that fulfill the conditions suitable as a substrate: The use of soil as the substrate and also the usage of grass as mulch to help in the prevention of evaporation.
Thank you Felipe,
ResponderEliminarNext week I will send an assessment of what this farm will need to improve on the technological aspects of protected agriculture and how this farm could be used as a model for covered agriculture in Long Island, Bahamas. A report will also be submitted to IICA with a request for a assistance with needed materials such as proper mesh covering, drip irrigation system etc
Would be grateful if CRESIAP could support a request to SARGARPA and IICA for assistance in acquiring needed materials for this project
Maurice
Ok Maurice
EliminarDont forget the solar energy
Maurice if possible you have a spanish speaker for the visit in october?
ResponderEliminarGoodnight Sen~or Inguez. I must apologise for such a late response.
ResponderEliminarWe are currently experiencing internet issues hence the delay. The
project involves working along with the Jamaica Greenhouse Association
on the efficacy of Beauveria bassiana on major pests of tomato and
sweet pepper which are major crops in the local industry. Upon
consultation with my supervisors, January was suggested as the month
for the commencement of the project.
Regards,
St. Sanya Morrison
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP).
ResponderEliminar22/09/2014 - 23/09/2014: Attended a training workshop hosted by the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI). The theme of the workshop was “Techniques to improve Protected Agriculture Productivity in Trinidad and Tobago” and was held at the University of the West Indies Field Station. I also gave an insight about the Mexico training during the workshop.
29/09/2014: Attended a meeting hosted by IICA Trinidad and Tobago at the Radisson hotel to mark the successful completion of the first phase in building technical capacity of 17 participants from both public and private sectors in Trinidad and Tobago who attended the training courses in Mexico.
I also made a presentation of my training in Protected Agriculture in terms of the skills and knowledge acquired as well as on the project that is intended to be implemented at my Research Division. I also stated that the proposal has been submitted to the Regional Centre for Integrated Services for Protected Agriculture in Mexico (CRESIAP).
In attendance was the ambassador of Mexico Mr. Mario Arriola Woog.
Cleaning and sanitation procedures are presently continuing on the greenhouse structure to be utilized. Drainage works are nearly complete after which will be cleaning of the roof (plastic). I am also photographically documenting everything from the initially beginnings.
Oh before I go how have you guys been? I think its time for another football match.
Kind Regards,
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP).
ResponderEliminar08/10/2014: Attended the Organic Foods Sub-Committee meeting of the Food Advisory Committee. It was held at the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards. I gave an insight about the organic farming that is practiced in Mexico.
Presently making arrangements for visit by Felipe and Dr. Eduardo to Trinidad. Planned date of visit is 27-31 October 2014. Their purpose is to assist in planning of the project proposal that I submitted for greenhouse production in Trinidad. This is in accordance with the third phase of the IICA-SAGARPA agreement.
I miss you all very much.
Kind Regards,
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP)
ResponderEliminar22/10/2014: Completed cleaning of roof of greenhouse structure.
23/10/2014: Secured quotations for materials required for initiation of project. These include greenhouse supplies, hydroponic air pumps, fertigation system, greenhouse grade fertilizers, greenhouse meters, ground cover and trellising wire, growth media, pesticides and installation of integrated growing system.
24/10/2014: Completed sanitation and cleaning of the greenhouse structure.
Confirmed date for visit by CRESIAP to Trinidad is 26th October - 1st November 2014. Welcome function for Felipe and Dr. Eduardo at the Piarco airport also confirmed.
Felipe remember to bring a football when you come as we have to continue the football match we started.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
We, Dr Eduardo and Felipe are travelling to Trinidad and Tobago to meet Rabindra's efforts
EliminarCRESIAP family Ing Cralos has arrived in Antigua and Barbuda
EliminarHello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP):
ResponderEliminarAlso Dr. Eduardo and Felipe with Rabindra are planning to have A cresiap extension here !
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP):
ResponderEliminar26/10/2014: Welcomed Felipe and Dr. Eduardo at the Piarco airport. Also provided escort to the PAX Guesthouse.
27/10/2014: Initiated work at the Ministry of Food Production (MFP). This entailed the following:
- Held meeting with Technical Officer Crops (TO) concerning the nature and scope of the CRESIAP visit.
- Gave tour of the Research Division facilities and laboratories.
-Visited the greenhouse structure where the proposed project is to be conducted for identification and evaluation of the existing conditions.
- Initiated project planning and budgeting with Felipe and Dr. Eduardo.
28/10/2014: Visited greenhouse farmer (Mr. D. Legall) at La Pastora, Santa Cruz village whom gave an insight into the existing climatic conditions and daily operation routine of his sweet pepper greenhouse. Nursery management, structure identification, media, fertigation system, pest and disease management, site selection and accessibility to resources were all identified and explained during the visit.
Also held meeting at IICA Trinidad with IICA representative Mr. Gregg CE Rawlins whom welcomed both Felipe and Dr. Eduardo to Trinidad and IICA and also explained IICA's role in the agreement with SARGARPA.
The visit to Trinidad is also being photographically documented.
SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES FOR MEXICAN GREENHOUSE CONSULTANT (CRESIAP) VISIT 26/10/2014-01/11/2014
Date Time Activity
25/10/14
26/10/14 Arrival into country.
27/10/14 7:00-8:00 AM Transport to CES.
8:00-12:00 AM Review of project proposal and budget.
12:00-1:00 PM Lunch.
1:00-2:00 PM Meeting with Director of Research
2:00-4:00 PM Visit to Research greenhouse for identification and evaluation of structure type, dimensions and climatic conditions.
4:00-6:00 PM Transport to Hotel.
28/10/14 7:00-8:00 AM Transport to CES.
8:00-12:00 AM Greenhouse farm visit- La Pastora Santa Cruz. 12:00-1:00 PM Lunch.
1:00-4:00 PM Visit to Research greenhouse for identification and evaluation of availability of water, electricity, accessibility, topography of land and orientation of structure.
4:00-6:00 PM Transport to Hotel.
29/10/14 7:00-8:00 AM Transport to CES.
8:00-12:00 AM Greenhouse farm visit- PCS Nitrogen Model Farm.
12:00-1:00 PM Lunch.
1:00-4:00 PM Field trip to areas of interest.
4:00-6:00 PM Transport to Hotel.
30/10/14 7:00-8:00 AM Transport to CES.
8:00-12:00 AM Greenhouse farm visit- University of the West Indies (UWI) Field Station.
12:00-1:00 PM Lunch.
1:00-4:00 PM Field trip to areas of interest.
4:00-6:00 PM Transport to Hotel.
31/10/14 7:00-8:00 AM Transport to CES.
8:00-12:00 AM Seminar presentation.
12:00-4:00 PM Farewell function.
4:00-6:00 PM Transport to Hotel.
01/11/14 Transport to Airport.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP):
ResponderEliminar29/10/2014: Visited PCS Nitrogen Model Farm. Met with Mr. K Burgess (manager) whom explained the purpose and operation of the model greenhouses and tunnel houses.
30/10/2014: Visited University of the West Indies Field Station (UFS). Met with Dr. W. Isaac whom gave an insight into the role played by the university in protected agriculture (PA). Also visited the university's greenhouse structure where water quality testing such as electrical conductivity (EC) and pH was done by Dr. Eduardo. Also was introduced to the various metrological equipment utilized by the field station.
31/10/2014: Hosted seminar at the Research Division. Rabindra presented his Mexico training in protected agriculture (PA) and also on his project proposal. He also gave an update on the rehabilitation works involved in the preparation of the greenhouse structure.
Dr. Eduardo gave a presentation on the use and management of substrates for protected agriculture (PA).
Hosted farewell function for Felipe and Dr. Eduardo.
01/11/2014: Transported Felipe and Dr. Eduardo to Piarco Airport for departure to Mexico.
"I'm gonna miss you guys a lot and thanks a million for all the help".
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP, the following is a copy of an email sent on 07/11/2014
ResponderEliminarHello and greetings from the Ministry of Food Production. I would like to say a very special thanks to the following individuals whom contributed towards the successful visit to Trinidad by the Mexican greenhouse consultants from the Regional Center for Integrated Services in Protected Agriculture (CRESIAP).
Mr. Karl Burgess
Thanks very much for the insight into the operations of PCS Nitrogen Model Farm. A lot was learned especially during the tour of the greenhouses and tunnel houses. Your institution plays a pivotal role in protected agriculture in the country through farmer education and knowledge. Thanks a million.
Mr. Derick Legall
The operations and management practices conducted at your greenhouse can be described as of high caliber and of par excellence. The Mexican consultants and I were highly impressed with the level of production and dedication we saw. This compounds the fact why you were highly recommended to the ministry as a model greenhouse farmer. Thanks very much for accommodating us during the visit.
Dr. Wendy-Ann Isaac
Thanks very much for providing an insight into the research activities of the greenhouse at the University Field Station (UFS). Such research initiatives by the university in protected agriculture are pioneering the way to more dynamic and sustainable production systems. Thanks very much for accommodating us during the visit.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP):
ResponderEliminarSubmitted the CRESIAP visit to Trinidad report. The following is an extract of the said report:
3.0 CONCLUSION
The CRESIAP visit to the Research Division was very successful and educational. It focused on planning of the project, which is a management strategy often overlooked by many of our local producers. It highlighted many important management and design features that must be improved with the research greenhouse. The knowledge and information gained especially from the expertise delivered during the field visits by the consultants will play a pivotal role in conducting the proposed experiment as well as solving many of the limitations faced by our greenhouse farmers.
I would like to thank the Ministry of Food Production and IICA as well as the Director of the Research Division for giving me this opportunity to participate in this training at Mexico. I would also like to thank CRESIAP for making the visit to Trinidad a very successful one.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP. I would to share the names and authors of the following articles whom have provided very useful information with respect to Trinidad greenhouse production.
ResponderEliminar• Brathwaite, R.A.I. 2008. ‘Report on needs assessment with greenhouse vegetable producers in Trinidad and Tobago’. Department of Production, the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad.
• St. Martin, C.C.G., Bedasie, S., Ganpat, W.G. Orrigio, S., Issac, W.A.P. and Brathwaite, R.A.I. 2008. Greenhouse Technology is once again washing the Caribbean – can we ride the wave this time around? Proceedings of the International Congress for Tropical Agriculture – Overcoming Challenges to Developing Sustainable Agri-Food Systems in the Tropics. The University of the West Indies Press, St. Augustine.pp.144-152.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP. I would like to share the names and authors of the following articles whom have provided very useful information with respect to Trinidad Greenhouse Production.
ResponderEliminar• Brathwaite, R.A.I. 2008. ‘Report on needs assessment with greenhouse vegetable producers in Trinidad and Tobago’. Department of Food Production, the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad.
• St. Martin, C.C.G., Bedasie, S., Ganpat, W.G. Orrigio, S., Issac, W.A.P. and Brathwaite, R.A.I. 2008. Greenhouse Technology is once again washing the Caribbean – can we ride the wave this time around? Proceedings of the International Congress for Tropical Agriculture – Overcoming Challenges to Developing Sustainable Agri-Food Systems in the Tropics. The University of the West Indies Press, St. Augustine.pp.144-152.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP):
ResponderEliminar15/12/2014: Submitted Protected Agriculture Draft Program of Work 2015.
19/12/2014: Conducted diagnostic servicing of irrigation pump by Porter's Agri-industrial Agencies Limited.
30/12/2014: Developed survey program for the protected agriculture farmers. It will be utilized as a link between the Ministry's research and the practices presently conducted by the protected agriculture farmers.
2014 will always be remembered as the beginning of a new chapter. To everyone may the New Year bring success and prosperity.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP):
ResponderEliminarSubmitted requisitions for materials required for the project. These included the following:
- Ground cover and trellising wire.
- Greenhouse meters.
- Greenhouse grade fertilizers.
- Pesticides.
- Servicing of irrigation pump and installation of irrigation system.
- Greenhouse supplies (Grow bags, plant clips etc.)
- Hardware supplies (PVC pipes and lumber etc.)
- Greenhouse growing media (Promix and sharp sand).
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello Rabindra, how it is going with your greenhouse?
ResponderEliminarBest regards from cresiap !
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP):
ResponderEliminar23/06/2015: Attended meeting at the Hyatt Regency Hotel with regards to New Innovations in Greenhouse technology. This meeting was hosted by TNO and DLV Plant whom are two greenhouse consulting firms from the Netherlands. I gave an account of the Mexico training in Protected Agriculture and the greenhouse projects that the Ministry of Food Production are presently embarking on.
Presently awaiting on the materials to initiate the tomato substrate project. These should be received very shortly after which work will commence.
However I have initiated a side project for the Ministry of Food Production entitled "Evaluation and comparison between greenhouse and field production utilizing twenty five accessions of hot pepper (Capsicum chinense)". The main objective of this project is to determine the differential adaptability of the different genotypes to local greenhouse conditions. The research will Identify hot pepper accessions that perform well under greenhouse conditions, and identify possible traits that are associated with performance under greenhouse conditions. It will also show the varieties that are better producers/yielders in the greenhouse as compared to the open field. These varieties can then be further bred and improved and released to our farmers as greenhouse hot pepper varieties.
Just to confirm the tomato substrate project that I submitted in my project proposal WILL BE CONDUCTED as soon as the materials are provided.
Hello Felipe. How are you my friend? Please forgive me for the late blog response. Greetings from Trinidad and Tobago and my research staff. Tell everyone that I said hello and that I miss them very much.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CREISAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP):
ResponderEliminarPresently conducting greenhouse experiment utilizing twenty five accessions hot pepper (Capsicum chinense). Agronomic data such as yield and fruit descriptors, as well as environmental data such as temperature, relative humidity, pH and EC are also being collected. These will be collated and graphically presented as representation of both sections (Section A:shade cloth; Section B: Anti-aphid mesh) of the greenhouse. Presently there are no sign of disease however pest attack of a pod borer has been detected. Samples of the pest has been collected and sent to the entomology department of the Research Division for identification. I will also send pictures of this pest via email. Harvesting and cultural management of crop are on going and being successfully conducted.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CREISAP, I would to share information about Trinidad hot pepper (Capsium chinense) as it relates to the greenhouse project that is presently being conducted:
ResponderEliminar-The Guinness Book of World Records has recently recognized two Caribbean landraces originating from Trinidad and Tobago as the hottest peppers in the world - Trinidad Scorpion Butch T (1,463,700 scoville heat units) (Da Silva 2011) and the Trinidad Moruga Scorpion (2,009,231 scovillle heat units) (Bosland et al. 2012).
I would also like to share the names and authors of the following article whom have provided very useful information with respect to Trinidad Greenhouse Production.
-St. Martin, C.C.G., and Brathwaite, R.A.I. 2012. Compost and compost tea: Principles and prospects as substrates and soil-borne disease management strategies in soil-less vegetable production. Biological Agriculture & Horticulture 28: 1-33.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP):
ResponderEliminar09/10/2015: Submitted Protected Agriculture Draft Programme of Work for 2016. This would entail two greenhouse experiments:
-Experiment #1: Pepper Trial.
-Experiment#2: Tomato Trial.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP. The news is indicating a very strong hurricane heading towards Mexico. My prayers are with you. Keep safe and God bless.
ResponderEliminarKind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP. Today makes it exactly one year ago Felipe and Dr. Eduardo visited Trinidad in fulfillment of the third phase of the IICA-SAGARPA collaboration. A year has passed and alot has taken place with regards to our greenhouse work and progress. This is largely in part due to CRESIAP. A hot pepper (Capsicum chinense) experiment is presently being conducted and a tomato (Lycoperscion esculentum) experiment will soon be initiated. I would like to take this opportunity to say a very special thanks to Felipe and Dr. Eduardo for all of their help and kindness and also for a very successful and educational visit one year ago.
ResponderEliminarKind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP):
ResponderEliminarThe pest that was collected and sent to the entomology department of the Research Division has been identified as Spodoptera latifascia commonly referred to as the armyworm. This was further confirmed by the University of Florida IFAS Extension via digital sample. Another pest has surfaced and has been identified as Manduca sexta commonly referred to as the hornworm. However the M. Sexta attack is minimum. Cultural and chemical control is presently being utilized for pest management.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP):
ResponderEliminarThe following relates to the Manduca Sexta (hornworm) that was discovered:
-Presently the entire greenhouse structure is fully enclosed and biosecurity measures such as double doors and footbaths are employed. Cultural control such as insect detection and removal is conducted on a daily basis and chemical control is achieved by the use of insecticides and miticides once per week at the recommended rates.
-Stock plants which are utilized to replaced weak or damaged plants of the greenhouse are propagated in an area that is not fully enclosed.
-The hornworm was detected on a stock plant that had recently been introduced into the greenhouse.
- Met with entomologist of the Research Division whom visited the greenhouse to access the portal of entry. It was inferred that the hornworm occurrence in the greenhouse originated from the stock plant that was recently introduced. As the propagating area is not fully enclosed the plant was contaminated with the pest whose eggs developed into the larva as seen when introduced into the greenhouse. However the occurrence is not significant as it was only found in 1 out of 300 plants. This translates to 0.003 %. Remedial measures will be taken however to prevent further occurrence.
- Presently there is no commercial product containing Beauveria bassiana in Trinidad. However an alternate biological control is bacillus thuringiensis which is available as various products. One such local product is called Dipel. It is a known biological control for Lepidoptera of which is the Order of the hornworm as well as the armyworm. Additionally there are contact insecticides such as Neem X and other oil based chemicals from plant origin that can be utilized.
- In addition to the use of the above biological control the stock plants are to be propagated in a fully enclosed area to prevent any further infestation.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Dear Dr. Santana
ResponderEliminarGreetings from Trinidad and Tobago. Firstly let me say thanks for providing such detailed information about control of the Manduca sexta.
The crop presently being propagated is hot pepper (Capsicum chinense). Being a solanaceous crop it is prone to attack by the Manduca sexta whom feeds primarily on this family of vegetables. As stated attack on pepper is rare however its solanaceous relatives tomato (Lycoperscion esculentum) and tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) are not at present on the research station thereby making pepper its prime target.
Beauveria bassiana was recommended as biological control however there is no commercial product at present in Trinidad containing this fungus. However an alternate biological control Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) is available locally through a range of commercial agricultural products. One such product is Dipel. In addition to being environmentally friendly this biological pesticide targets Lepidopteron species such as the Manduca sexta. It is the most well-known biological control utilized locally.
It was inferred that the pest had originated from the stock area where plants to be utilized for replacement into the greenhouse are kept. This area was not fully enclosed. As the hormworm was detected on a stock plant that had recently been introduced into the greenhouse contamination with the M. sexta eggs developed into the larva as seen. Large larva of this size is approximately 14 days old which corresponds to the date of placement of the stock plant into the greenhouse.
Remedial measures have been taken to prevent further occurrences. Stock plants are to be treated with the mentioned biological pesticide and inspected before placement into the greenhouse. Detailed inspection for young larva is warranted as the adult caterpillar are somewhat difficult to destroy. Additionally stock plants are also to be propagated in an area which is fully enclosed thereby preventing pest entry and plant contamination. Insect detection by means of physical removal/ handpicking is conducted daily and utilized as the standard cultural control procedure.
The recommendations you suggested with respect to light for capture of the moths will be investigated and followed up upon as well as the use of natural enemies. The hornworm specimen that was detected was sent to the entomology department of the Research Division for assessment and observation.
I would like to take this opportunity to express a very special thanks for your kind words of encouragement and wealth of knowledge on pest management and control. Thanks a million for all the help.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP):
ResponderEliminar13/11/2015: Technology Transfer:- Conducted greenhouse field visit at the Research Division for engineering students of the Eastern Caribbean Institute of Agriculture and Forestry (ECIAF). An insight was given into the structural dynamics of greenhouse production. Emphasis was focussed upon the type of greenhouse, dimensions and technology level.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP):
ResponderEliminarThe project entitled "Evaluation and comparison between greenhouse and field production utilizing 25 accessions of yellow hot pepper (Capsicum chinense)" was successfully completed. Environmental response of the growing environment is represented below:
Table 1: Variation in temperature and relative humidity over five periods per day under shade cloth conditions
Time Temperature (0C) Relative Humidity (%)
8:00 AM 29.2 95
10:00 AM 31.8 84
12:00 PM 34.6 62
2:00 PM 33.1 60
4:00 PM 30.2 64
Although not investigated in the study the use of white greenhouse ground cover can serve as an alternative to the black ground cover that is generally utilized. A white ground cover radiates less heat as opposed to black ground cover.
Future work may also encompass testing of plant samples at the analytical laboratory from both field and greenhouse for analysis of plant nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium. This would not only serve as a source of information on plant nutrient status and ultimately as a tool to aid in nutrient management decisions but also as a guide as to how the greenhouse environment affects nutrient partitioning and ultimately crop growth as compared to the open field.
Protected agriculture is a very dynamic venture. Its establishment would promote sustainability and productivity, make the sector more competitive, and lead to increased contribution towards food security.
At present the greenhouse is being cleaned and sanitized for preparation of a tomato media experiment and another heat tolerant ability pepper experiment.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP):
ResponderEliminar21/04/2016: Conducted visit at the Research Division greenhouse for members and staff of the Crops Subdivision Unit. The purpose of the visit was to inform about my successes thus far in greenhouse production as well as to update about the new and upcoming projects to be conducted.
Kind Regards
Rabindra
Hello CRESIAP, the following is an update on the Trinidad Greenhouse Progress (TGP):
ResponderEliminar05/08/2016: Created and printed posters in accordance with the 3 phases of the Mexico training. Each poster is representative of a particular phase.
Poster#1: Mexico protected agriculture training.
Poster#2: Mexican protected agriculture visit.
Poster#3: A study of the economic viability of greenhouse production versus open field production in hot pepper (Capsicum chinense Jacq.).
Each poster is 3 feet height and 5 feet width. They contain pictures of the various processes explained during the training and visit as well as data and graphical representation of the greenhouse experiment that was conducted. It will be utilized to inform about the success of the Mexico training as well as the protected agriculture work presently being conducted in Trinidad.
Kind Regards
Rabindra