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AMES -- Midwest commercial vegetable growers can access two new resources from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach on Napa cabbage and eggplant production. The publications, which are available for download at no cost from the Iowa State Extension Store, provide research-backed guidance on cultivation, pest management and post-harvest handling for the specialty crops.
"Napa Cabbage Production in the Midwest" outlines the crop's botanical background as a cool-season crop, meaning it performs best in moderate temperatures (60-70 degrees Fahrenheit). Napa cabbage is primarily grown for fresh markets and fermented for dishes like kimchi. The publication also offers guidance on managing several major pest threats to Napa cabbage, including flea beetles and caterpillars, as well as diseases like black rot and clubroot.
The second resource, "Commercial Eggplant Production in the Upper Midwest," similarly describes growth and management techniques. A warm-season crop, eggplant requires daytime temperatures of 75-85 F and nighttime temperatures consistently above 50-60 F for successful field establishment. According to the publication, beneficial production techniques for eggplant include using black plastic mulch to warm the soil and drip irrigation, which can help prevent blossom-end rot.
Both publications also offer an overview of implementing insect exclusion netting as a tool for pest management, a promising physical pest management strategy for growers looking to reduce insecticide inputs. The findings are based on research conducted at the ISU Horticulture Research Station in Ames.
These resources are designed primarily with commercial vegetable growers in mind, although the information is relevant for home gardeners.
For more information, access the publications on the ISU Extension Store or contact Ajay Nair at 515-294-7080 or nairajay@iastate.edu.