Applications accepted for Home Vegetable Variety Trial
The Mississippi State University Extension 2022 Home Vegetable Variety Trial is an exciting opportunity for citizens to participate in research. Extension specialists can research new plant varieties at current facilities, but including citizens increases its ability to test varieties across the state.
Having home gardeners throughout the state participate helps Extension learn which varieties perform best. This can provide valuable data to determine which varieties are more adapted, more productive, and preferred by Mississippi home gardeners.
Each trial will contain two varieties of six crops each to compare during the growing season. Participants will receive enough seed of each variety for 10 row feet of garden space. Plot labels, planting/growing instructions, data taking instructions, and an evaluation form will be included. Participants will plant and grow these varieties as with any other vegetable, record the requested data, and return the information to MSU Extension. Data collected will be germination rate, first cultivar to produce, highest yield, disease resistance, taste, etc.
To be considered for participation, pick up an application from the Lawrence County Extension Service. Completely fill out the application/order form, sign the consent agreement, and include payment. Selecting either option 1 & 2 will be $10, or $20 for both options. All applications must be received by Dec. 30.
For MSU to manage the trial, only 80 participants statewide will be allowed. Final participants will be selected from applications to provide trials evenly throughout each district. Participants will be notified by email when selected. Seeds and other materials will be mailed to the county Extension office by late February for participants to pick up. Participants not selected for the trial will have checks mailed back to them.
Return the application/order form and include a check by mail to Reid Nevins at MSU Extension Lowndes County, P.O. Box 1386, Columbus, MS, 39701. Contact Nevins at 662-328-2111 with any questions.
