Allison and Drew's journey

The Project

Last year, Ghost House Farm invested in automation. This helped them increase their tunnel production. Their yield went from 1.5 lbs/sq. ft to 3 lbs! Good job!

This year, they aim to increase to 5 lbs per square foot. Inspired by the Orisha Method, they have already moved from a single drip tape to 4 per bed. And, they will put down landscape fabric after harvesting his intercropping lettuce.

Every week, they will provide us with their observations and photos. Then, we will help them fine-tune their production so they can reach their goal with actionable tips.

What we know for now:

1. Tomatoes were planted on April 1st
2. Some cherry tomatoes wilted two times after transplantation
3. First cluster set after 3 weeks

The potential after 3 weeks?

Surviving is not thriving. Irrigation is extremely important for growth. For comparison's sake, at our farm, we transplanted April 1st too. But 3 weeks after transplant, we were already seeing our third cluster! And plants are chest high.

But…because of a power outage, our tunnel almost froze one night…Guys, this is your chance to catch up!

First suggestion of the season:

To prevent wilting after transplanting, hand water the roots for around 10 days. This is important for their recovery. 

The roots take days to spread into the soil. So, they need a lot of water in the area where the pot used to be. So, we need to water this space rather than the whole beds with drip tapes. 

How to know if irrigation is correct?

Touch your leaves. If they’re cooler than the air, you’re good. If they’re warmer, you're missing water. 

Here is what the plants looked like 3 weeks after transplant: