Who we are
The Iowa Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association was established in 1984 to promote the interests of fruit and vegetable growers of the state through meetings, access to information, research, networking and mentoring opportunities. The Iowa Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association continues to thrive and operates with a nine-member board. IFVGA remains an affiliate of its grandparent organization, the Iowa State Horticultural Society.
Featured
2022 IFVGA Lifetime Achievement Award Winner!
The 2022 IFVGA Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Recipient is Darrell and Malinda Geisler! In 2005, Darrell and Malinda opened their farm to visitors. For 17 years they served their community through family fun, education and involvement.
The Geisler’s have been key members of our association over the years. Darrell served on the IFVGA board member from 2010 to 2015. He served as IFVGA president from 2012 to 2015. Darrell and Malinda also coordinated IFVGA’s booth at the Iowa State Fair, sponsored the Big Pumpkin Contest, and hosted many IFVGA and partner meetings on their farm.
Congratulations to Darrell and Malinda Geisler in honor of their many years of dedicated service and commitment to our organization and industry!
Our third annual Iowa Specialty Producers Conference was another successful event! Weren’t able to attend? Visit www.iowaspecialtyproducers.com to purchase access to the conference recordings. We look forward to seeing you in 2023!
News
Yard and Garden: Planting Perennial Vegetables
Asparagus, rhubarb and horseradish are three perennial vegetables that, once planted, will come back from their roots year after year. When fully established in a favorable location, and when good cultural practices are followed, a crop can be harvested from these plants each year. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach horticulturists offer tips on suitable locations, good varieties and proper planting of asparagus, rhubarb and horseradish in Iowa. Learn more…
Techniques for Managing Frost in Vegetable and Fruit Crops
Fruit and vegetable growers often wish to take advantage of the early part of the spring growing season, but care must be taken to avoid the costly damages from frost. In a recent article for the Acreage Living Newsletter, Ajay Nair, associate professor in horticulture and extension vegetable production specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, discusses the different options producers can choose for managing and mitigating frost damage. Learn more…
Farmers with Visitors Can Manage Risk with Free Online Course
There are important risk management considerations for those involved with on-farm visitors. In order to help educate farmers about the risks and how to prepare, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is offering a free, online training that covers the types of concerns these farmers might face. Learn more…
Iowa Specialty Producers Conference Is Feb. 9-10
Specialty crop producers can hone their skills and receive timely updates Feb. 9-10, as the Iowa Specialty Producers Conference returns for the third year, at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny. The two-day event will feature keynote messages by John Kennedy, founder of agritourism.life, along with educational breakout sessions both days. Learn more…