Tabler Farm hosts several sites which demonstrate a variety of agricultural production models and learning spaces for students, aspiring farmers, and community members to utilize.
Field Vegetable ProductionA 1/4 acre diversified vegetable production plot that produces a wide variety vegetable crops. Students have the opportunity to learn about crop rotation, cover cropping, soil amendments, and other small-scale field production techniques. |
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Aquaponics LaboratoryAn indoor growing operation consisting of vegetative plants grown in a circulating aquatic system with fish which provide the nutrients needed by the plants. Students have the opportunity to learn about this unique growing system, assist with vegetable production, and conduct research in a controlled environment. |
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High TunnelA semi-controlled vegetable growing structure designed to maximize production capabilities. This structure allows for four-season growing and complete control of irrigation. |
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Culinary & Medicinal Herb ProductionAn added value or alternative crop to vegetables, the farm features herb growing beds to demonstrate another growing option for students to participate in. Herbs are considered high value crops and can be sold specially to restaurants and other markets. |
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Bee ApiaryAnother added value or alternative model to vegetable production, the farm demonstrates a small honey bee apiary located in close proximity to the field production plot so the bee’s can collect pollen from the crops. |
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Mixed-Fruit OrchardA small-scale mixed fruit orchard featuring dwarf apple trees, pear, peach, and nectarine trees. We follow organic practices to demonstrate how to grow fruitĀ organically. |
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Small Fruits ProductionStrawberry, blackberry, and raspberry plots areĀ established as a part of the demonstration site. Future plantings of other small fruits such as: blueberry, kiwi berry, grape, currant, and more will be coming soon! |
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Native Food ForestA special project utilizing exclusively native tree species to the mid-Atlantic Appalachian region which have food value for human consumption. A multi-purpose site demonstrating the cultural significance of wild edible foods, the ecological purpose of establishing forest on farmland that has an added value capability, and economic opportunity of perennial agriculture. |
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Plant Nursery GreenhouseA heated greenhouse located on the main campus where all of our spring seedlings are started and our annual plant sale is held. Students learn the ins and outs of seed starting and how to manage a plant nursery. |
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Learning GardensA raised-bed garden space designated for community and class use. Community groups can utilize this space for workshops or hands-on field trips. The site is designed to be wheel-chair accessible. |
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Post Harvest HandlingA designated site for the washing, packing, and storage of vegetative crops. The storage unit is a repurposed shipping container to demonstrate alternative construction models that utilize pre-existing materials. This model is an essential component to vegetable production and gives students the opportunity to learn the post-harvest phase of farming. |
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Outdoor ClassroomAn addition to the produce processing station, the outdoor classroom is the farms first on-site learning space where classes and workshops can be held under a pavilion. |
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Cut Flowers ProductionCut flowers are a high value crop that can be added value or an alternative to other production models. Students will learn best growing and harvesting techniques to optimize sales. |
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Perennial PlantsTabler grows a variety of perennial herbs, flowers, fruits, and vegetative crops that can be utilized by home gardeners and have potential to be grown commercially. |
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COMING SOON: Culinary Mushroom ProductionA developing project to demonstrate the potential of culinary mushroom production. Mushrooms are a high-value crop that can be sold in local or regional markets. |