Michigan State University Extension
Ag Experiment Station Special Reports - SR599201
07/28/98
STATUS AND POTENTIAL OF MICHIGAN AGRICULTURE Vegetable Crops Robert C. Herner and John F. Kelly
Because of the wide range of vegetable crops and the
differences in culture, harvest, utilization and marketing,
these crops are reported herein with the following
organizational format. The initial reports were a result
of pulling together individual reports prepared by the
Department of Horticulture faculty members with
responsibilities in vegetable crops teaching, research and
extension. These were revised and expanded through the
pre-conference and conference review process but did not
receive a wide review by industry representatives.
Reliable production and value statistics are not
available for the full range of these crops. The most
recently published industry-wide data can be found in the
1987 Michigan Department of Agriculture Commercial
Vegetable Survey. This report and the most recent
statistics from the MDA Agricultural Statistics form the
basis for the data cited herein.
I. Vegetables Grown Primarily on Mineral Soils
A. Fresh Market Warm Season Vegetables
B. Miscellaneous/Specialty Vegetables
C. Snap Beans and Tomatoes for Processing
D. Asparagus
E. Pickling Cucumbers
II. Vegetables Grown Primarily on Organic Soils
A. Onion
B. Carrot
C. Celery
D. Lettuce
Projections have been made for each of the crop
groupings. Following are some of the projections which are
likely to apply to all or most of the vegetable crops.
A. Production
-Total production and acreage are not likely to change
significantly.
-Total number of growers is likely to decline, perhaps
by 5-10%. This will probably include both profitable
and efficient operators as well as marginal operators.
-Current production areas will remain the centers of
production.
-The processing industry, despite constant competition
and low prices, is likely to maintain its current
level of production. This will be important in
Michigan's overall labor market. New facilities will
be needed to maintain competitiveness.
B. Profitability and prices
-Profitability will continue to vary from season to
season, but if recent price trends continue, overall
profitability will decline and could result in
significant declines in production and number of
producers beyond the 10% estimated above.
C. Input requirements
-Fertilizer use may decline as much as 20-25% as
environmental awareness (e.g. water quality) increases
and cost-cutting becomes more critical in determining
profitability.
-Insecticide and fungicide use may decline by 20-30% if
pest management practices are improved and as
pesticides are removed from the market. A very
limited IPM research effort at MSU will severely limit
progress on developing pest management programs
specific for Michigan vegetables.
-Herbicide use is likely to remain steady or to
increase as reduced-tillage systems become more
feasible.
-Irrigation is likely to increase by 10-20%, including
new installations and expanded use of existing
systems. Precision application of fertilizers through
irrigation will contribute to overall reduced
fertilizer usage.
-Fuel usage is likely to decrease slightly (5-10%) as
reduced tillage and better management decreases
vehicle use.
-Electricity usage may be reduced through better
management, but may increase with increased use of
irrigation and refrigeration to preserve quality.
Probably there will be little net change.
D. Quality and handling
-Better utilization of refrigeration, handling and
improved packaging will be necessary to maintain a
competitive stance. This will require investment in
facilities.
-Any expansion of Michigan markets will have to be
preceded by an increase in quality, which already
generally is considered to be high under "normal"
weather conditions.
E. Varieties
-Hybrids and other new genetic improvements will
continue to provide growers with higher-quality,
higher-yielding crops. The cost of seed is likely to
increase significantly, perhaps as much as 50%.
-Developing pest resistance in varieties will continue
to play an essential role in pest management.
F. Management
-Computers, crop consultants and extension-delivered
technologies and problem solutions will be needed to
address the need for more efficient management which
will be required for profitability and stainability.
There is likely to be increased demand for farm
management software of various kinds for use on MS-DOS
or Apple computers.
G. Marketing
-Current markets will remain important. These extend
beyond the state boundaries. Increased transportation
costs and other costs of production unique to
California (e.g. water) could give Michigan producers
an edge in markets not currently within reach.
-More coordinated marketing efforts will be needed
before any large increase in marketing competitiveness
occurs.
H. Technology
-Packaging, storage and handling technologies, both new
and currently available, will be employed more
extensively as the market becomes more demanding of
high quality vegetables convenient to the consumer.
-Genetic improvements from conventional plant breeding
will continue to be adopted readily by the industry.
Breakthroughs in genetic engineering will finally
begin to deliver improvements hitherto unavailable.
-IPM technologies will be adapted as rapidly as they
are developed, but unless the research in this area is
accelerated, the problems of pest control with fewer
available pesticides will overtake the industry.
-Low-cost, low-technology innovations will be readily
adopted to help solve problems such as runoff and
erosion because of their general cost-effectiveness.
-A long-term strategy is needed for developing cross-
commodity support of research/technology development.
VEGETABLES GROWN PRIMARILY ON MINERAL SOILS Fresh Market/Warm-Season Vegetables
Although up-to-date and accurate acreage and
production figures are not available for the 10 to 12 warm-
season vegetable crops raised for fresh market, it is
estimated that 35-40,000 acres are planted in Michigan each
year with a value of about $55 million. Because many of
these crops are grown in various combinations by individual
growers, it is difficult to estimate accurately the number
of growers involved--1,500 to 2,000 appears to be a
reasonable estimate.
These crops are grown in several counties, primarily
in the lower half of the Lower Peninsula. Berrien and Van
Buren counties in Southwest Michigan have the greatest
diversity and the greatest number of growers; cucumbers,
tomatoes, peppers and muskmelons are the leading crops.
The growers there have access to the Benton Harbor market
and the Chicago marketing area. By most standards, most of
these growers operate small acreages. However, there are
also other areas of concentration. Most of the sweet corn
is grown for fresh consumption in Southeastern Michigan.
Significant production of peppers and squash can be found
in the Saginaw Valley, and both squash and tomatoes are
shipped by growers in the area from Kent County north to
Oceana County.
Fresh Market/Warm Season Vegetables
No. of Acres Production Value
growers planted Trend 1000 Cwt Trend $1000 Trend
1987
Sweet corn, 1990
783 13,000 Steady 802 Up $11,268 Fluctuates
Tomatoes, 1987 358 2,800 Down 250 Down 6,300 Steady
Cucumbers, 1987 160 4,500 4,000 est
Muskmelons, 1987 235 1,500 3,000 est
Bell peppers, 1987 231 2,300 4,000 est
Pumpkins, 1987
256 1,500
Summer squash, 1987
117 800
Winter squash, 1987
224 1,700
Green beans, 1987
127 2,500
Cole crops, 1987
438* 3,990 Down 4,000 est
Other Vegetable/Processing
Green beans
137 22,000 62,350 Up $10,350 Up
Cole crops
45 910
Peppers
23 1,400
All squash
39* 900
Tomatoes
96 5,750 Down 132,840 Down 9,671 Down
*Probable duplication.
Industry Strengths
Availability of large metropolitan markets (Chicago,
Detroit), sandy soils with irrigation, experienced
producers, an existing marketing infrastructure (buyers,
brokers, packing houses, Benton Harbor market for small
operations), the ability to produce high quality, general
availability of migrant labor, diversification, and a
generally favorable summer climate are the advantages held
by this industry.
Michigan generally has fewer insect and disease
problems than states to the south and Mexico.
The industry has relied heavily on MSU for cultivar,
pest management and cultural information. The growers of
Southwest Michigan are being served by the SWMREC and its
staff in Berrien County. The center is charged also with
generating crop data for all the southern tier of counties.
Seed companies have kept growers supplied with new
cultivars. MSU has trained second and third generation
sons and daughters of established producers.
Locally-grown vegetable crops offer a limited but
significant opportunity for roadside/local marketing and U-
Pik marketing.
Industry Weaknesses
The greatest challenge to growers of fresh market
vegetables has been the uncertainty of prices and the
availability of markets. Annual crop acreages may increase
or decrease quickly, but small amounts of overproduction
can and do affect prices drastically.
Back-to-back years of unprofitability drive
significant numbers of growers out of this business each
year, but many remain and through good management and
diversification realize good levels of
profitability. Melons, slicing cucumbers, squash and
peppers frequently are profitable.
Michigan's season is late--a potential advantage in
that no states come into production after us, but more
often a disadvantage when earlier-producing areas stay in
the market and bring prices down.
Michigan's fresh market/warm season vegetable
producers are not organized for marketing or establishing
reputations for high quality. Adding to this problem are
the facts that some areas lack irrigation, and early season
plant and stand establishment is often difficult because of
the variable spring weather--frost, winds and heavy rains.
Loss of effective pesticides threatens this segment of
horticulture.
Environmental Situation
Many Michigan families are involved and many seasonal
laborers are dependent upon this generally unmechanized
industry. These crops require high levels of irrigation
and fertilizer and pesticide use. This segment of the
industry, as are all others and most of production
agriculture, is constantly challenged by a myriad of new
and often complex regulations from local, state and federal
government agencies. Producers need assistance in
interpreting and complying with these regulations. Urban
encroachment and potential contamination of ground water
are becoming more important each year.
Industry Competition
No other segment of farming can be subjected to such
stiff competition as the summer fresh vegetable industry.
All neighboring states and Canada and new producers in
Michigan can get into the vegetable business almost
overnight. New producers often operate at a loss, but
their effect on the market can have an adverse effect on
the whole industry. There is often very little to
differentiate fresh vegetables from different areas, and
the fresh vegetables can only have increased value-added
benefit if they are specialty items with specific
identities, unique packaging and extra high quality. Some
of Michigan's fresh vegetables could be marketed via this
route.
Research/Extension Strengths
A well-trained, aggressive and cooperative group of
county/district extension agents is still serving this
industry. The weekly Crop Advisory Team meetings and
periodic in-service training help to maintain this team.
Good support is available from the Departments of Botany
and Plant Pathology and Entomology. However, the number of
personnel available is a severe limiting factor (e.g. one
half faculty full time equivalent (FTE) in Entomology for
all vegetables).
The Southwest Michigan Research and Extension Center
is continuing the tradition of service begun at the Sodus
Station. The grower-stimulated work on cultivar testing
has high visibility, and new IPM/tillage work at the
station addresses anticipated environmental needs. To
assure continuity in this work, permanent replacements for
extension horticulturist and plant pathologist positions
are essential. The new MSU thrust in natural products
and their role in pest management adds a valuable new
component to this group.
Research/Extension Weaknesses
The lack of a horticulturist, nematologist,
entomologist and a pathologist for IPM work weakens the
support we can give this industry. The loss of a weed
science position has severely restricted our ability to
address weed problems--some work has been picked up by the
Department of Horticulture's muck crop specialist, but his
time and resources are limited. Increased marketing
support would help address the most serious economic
threat. Because of the diversity and generally minor level
of production of these crops, pesticide/IPM issues will
continue to be of major concern. These are not being
addressed adequately.
Research/Extension Environment
This industry needs IPM/food safety/pest management
support from MSU because of public concerns and lack of
understanding of issues related to pesticide use on fresh
market vegetables. Strong extension leadership and better
grower organization is needed, as is a program for
education of the public on issues of nutritional value and
safety of vegetables.
The relationship of MSU to growers is good, but we are
not communicating beyond those who participate in organized
meetings.
Research/Extension Competition
Rather than viewing it as competition, the MSU
vegetable team has sought input from co-workers in
neighboring states and the seed industry. Through informal
understandings/agreements among researchers, some of the
responsibilities have been assumed by one state or another.
For example, fresh market tomato, pepper and slicing
cucumber work has been conducted in Michigan, while
research on processing tomatoes and sweet corn is done in
Ohio or Indiana. Such informal arrangements are
facilitated by the annual Tri-State (Mich., Ohio, Ind.)
vegetable researcher extension specialist/agent meeting.
Industry--Five-year Projection
The industry is not likely to experience growth.
Recent trends indicate continued decline unless pricing
improves significantly. The industry is very volatile and
could expand if marketing/pricing/quality were to improve.
The Michigan advantages should permit Michigan growers to
compete effectively with other areas which experience most
of the same challenges.
Michigan, with its skilled greenhouse growers, could
become a regional center for producing high-quality
vegetable transplants. There is abundant suitable land,
good sites and high-quality water for expansion.
Environmental impacts of pesticides, the loss of pesticides
and public concern over these issues could limit expansion.
The opportunity exists to meet the expressed demands of
the public for "organic" or "semi-organic" vegetables or
for specially produced, extra-high-quality, high-nutrition
vegetables.
Research/Extension--Five-year Projection
Despite the need for more research and extension
inputs and leadership, no new resources are anticipated.
The only way to garner new resources for this industry is
to address the public's concerns and build the industry on
its response to public needs. Fresh produce has a
particularly high public visibility, so that quality and
marketing must be major components of the
research/extension agenda. Research/extension can play a
major role in the success of the vegetable industry,
especially if they can address the problems which cannot be
addressed effectively at the grower level. This may
involve technology development or "putting out fires".
Miscellaneous/Specialty Upland Fresh Market and Processing
Vegetables
In addition to the "mainstream" fresh and processed
vegetables, Michigan growers produce a wide array of crops
to meet special demands of the fresh market and seasonal
niches which give the processors a more diverse line and a
more continuous season. There are few current production
statistics for these crops. Their combined value likely
exceeds $10 million. Included in this diverse group are
various types of peppers (1350 acres) and squash (900
acres) for processing, Chinese vegetables, greenhouse
tomatoes and herbs, cauliflower for processing (500 acres),
leafy greens (480 acres), pumpkins (1350 acres), fresh peas
(200 acres) and several others grown by a few growers with
specific markets.
Industry Strengths
This segment of the industry enjoys the same
advantages as the warm season/fresh market segment but has
the advantage of more limited competition.
Industry Weaknesses
There is no grower organization for these crops. The
competitive advantage could be very short-lived if only a
few new producers entered this production area. The rapid
increase of broccoli production in several states is a good
illustration of how a highly touted expansion crop rapidly
became an overproduced item unable to compete in the long
run with California producers.
The lack of approved pesticides for minor crops is a
major deterrent to expanded production or even continued
production on any scale.
Industry Competition
Growers of these crops can thrive only with a lack of
excessive competition or through organization and external
support for marketing efforts. Because the markets
generally are limited, these producers would be unlikely to
support a large research/extension program which would open
their market to more producers. On the other hand, they
have many problems which could be eliminated with a limited
level of extension support. Like other industry segments,
the enterprises which can muster essential support from
their land-grant institution(s) are those which are likely
to survive. Because of MSU's breadth of strengths, we
could support effectively these enterprises at a
maintenance level to assist in their survival or growth.
Research/Extension Strengths
About the only advantage to research/extension
programs in this area is the vast array of problems to be
addressed and the potential for making major contributions,
albeit to a very minor industry segment. Opportunity may
exist for some IR-4-funded work as well as IPM approaches.
Research/Extension Weaknesses
There is no direct grower support for research or
extension. In fact, there are no grower-identified needs.
The crops are so diverse that without specifically assigned
faculty support, research and extension assistance to this
group of growers is likely to be on a hit or miss basis.
The last MSU support of note to this industry segment was
a breeding effort which included Chinese cabbage, rutabaga
and cauliflower. This program was lost due to a
retirement.
Industry --Five-year Projection
This segment of the industry has potential for limited
growth, but without research, extension and marketing help
it likely will decline, especially as research and
extension support in other states strengthens their own
highly specialized producers.
Research/Extension--Five-year Projection
The funding projections from federal, state or
industry sources do not indicate any potential for
significant efforts in this area. Individually funded
projects such as postharvest preservation of fresh herbs
are short-term opportunities at best.
Snap Beans and Tomatoes for Processing
Although snap beans and tomatoes each contribute about
$10 million annually to Michigan growers, the two crops
differ significantly in that the beans are both grown and
processed in Michigan, contributing more than double the
$10 million with the value added by processing. In fact,
some beans are shipped into Michigan for processing before
the Michigan crop matures. Tomatoes, on the other hand,
are largely shipped to Ohio for processing--over half of
the crop is raised in Lenawee and Monroe Counties.
Industry Strengths
Snap bean processing fits well into the overall
processing and farming operations of Michigan. Good yields
of high quality machine-harvested beans are produced due to
an abundance of good soil and irrigation water. The crop,
being contracted, provides consistent, predictable farm
income. The seed companies and processors give good
support to growers, and disease and insect pressure is
minimal. The crop does not require large chemical inputs,
and the short growing season of the crop allows multiple
plantings and an extended season.
Processing tomato acreage remains relatively steady
in Michigan despite the massive relocation of the
processing tomato industry to California. Michigan
soils can supply the needs of Ohio processors with early
machine-harvested tomatoes because of the good drainage of
southeast Michigan sites. The tomato contract with
processors provides a predictable and consistent grower
income.
Industry Weaknesses
The snap bean processing industry's biggest weakness
is the low profit margin. There is no grower organization.
The processing tomato industry in the East and Midwest
has shrunk because of the shift to California and overseas
production and the conversion of major processors to
utilization of tomato paste. Some tomatoes are processed
fresh in Southwest Michigan. Tomatoes require large
fertilizer and pesticide inputs.
Industry Competition
The primary competition for processed tomatoes is from
California. Snap beans are processed on a large scale in
Wisconsin and New York as well as Oregon. Canned snap
beans are a relatively low-value item, so a corporate
decision of Michigan's single largest bean processor to
consolidate in another state could drastically reduce bean
contracts/acreage.
Research/Extension Strengths
By mutual agreement with Ohio and Indiana
institutions, Michigan has allowed those states to take the
lead in research/breeding on processing tomatoes. This has
worked well. MSU has maintained close contact with
extension/research workers in those states. Excellent
grower support is provided in Southeast Michigan.
Research/Extension Weaknesses
With current staffing in the Department of
Horticulture there is no campus-based leadership or out-
state contact for either of these crops. MSU has had a
minimal support role for Michigan snap bean growers.
Five-Year Projection--Industry
No significant changes are anticipated, but corporate
decisions could significantly reduce demand for either of
these crops.
Five-Year Projection--Research/extension
No new or expanded role is possible without specific
industry requests and support.
Asparagus
Michigan ranks third in asparagus production in the
U.S. It is a $14 million industry with about 80-90% of the
crop processed and 10-20% fresh-marketed. About 24,000
acres are planted in Michigan, although in 1991 there was
a 500-acre decrease in annual planting, primarily in
southwest Michigan. The value added to asparagus by
processing is 2-3 times the farm-gate value, giving the
Michigan crop a value close to $40 million.
Industry Strengths
Michigan is the only regional source, and there is a
strong processing industry in the state. The product is
high quality, there are strong grower organizations for
research and marketing and there is a research/marketing
check-off scheme. The production is concentrated in two
major areas of Michigan: Oceana County and the Southwest
region. There is a good working relationship between MSU
research and extension activities and the industry.
Asparagus is a good fit for seasonal labor needs and
efficiency in use of processing facilities. The crop
requires low fertility and pesticide inputs, i.e., it is
environmentally friendly. The product is nutritious and
high in dietary fiber. Michigan harvests by snapping
spears, whereas, other states do not. This procedure makes
harvesting more efficient and would be amenable to
mechanical harvesting, but the cost of development and
manufacture of appropriate equipment would be prohibitive
based on recent studies.
Industry Weaknesses
The average statewide yields are low in general and
are declining in older fields. There is limited
profitability due to relatively unchanging contract
agreements and high cost of stand establishment. There is
a need for new varieties. Because the crop is perennial the
change to improved cultivars is slow. Asparagus is highly
susceptible to spring frosts. The fresh market image is
weak and there is a lack of diverse products. It is worth
noting that a comparison of Michigan to western yields is
difficult because of the added weight contributed by
western knife-harvested spears.
Environmental Situation
The sandy soils are plentiful and acreage is
relatively inexpensive. Climate is favorable to producing
quality spears. There is relatively low pesticide and
fertilizer application, although the needs may increase
with the prevailing no-till practices. Annual frost risk is
high, but even in frost damage years there is a crop,
albeit reduced. There is drought susceptibility in dry
years, but yield reductions due to drought have not been
great. The processing industry is stable.
Industry Competition
There is tough head-to-head competition with minor
production in surrounding states and product from
California and Washington. Mexico exported more asparagus
to the U.S. in 1991 than Michigan produced. Year-round
availability in the market has reduced the previous
seasonal appeal.
Research/Extension Strengths
There are established plant breeding and pathology
programs. Limited entomology expertise is available. The
grower farm at Hart, Southwest Michigan Research and
Education Center, MSU Horticultural Research Center
facilities, and collaboration with growers including
variety trials are available. Research on the decline
syndrome, with respect to biological control and natural
products, is in progress. This project receives major
federal funding, but its continuation is tenuous. Industry
support is on line.
Research/Extension Weaknesses
Extension effort is lacking. There is no long-term
support, and more support dollars are needed. There is
only an interim position collaborator in plant pathology.
Funding is needed to explore long-term storage systems.
There is a need for new product and package development.
Research/Extension Environment
The voids in extension specialist staffing hinder
liaison with the industry. Programs are needed in
postharvest and product development and marketing. There is
a need to develop an interdepartmental team approach. Field
staff needs education on the crop.
Competition/Cooperation
Rutgers University (New Jersey) and University of
Guelph (Ontario) have breeding programs and share some
materials. Our program is strong in spite of minimal
funding.
Industry Five-year Projection
The number of growers and acreage will slightly
decline or remain static. Stability and growth is dependent
on higher-yielding varieties. The fresh market opportunity
needs full exploitation. New products/packaging/marketing
are needed to maintain price/profitability. The federal
decision on free trade with Mexico will have significant
impact on the future of asparagus production in Michigan.
Yields will increase appreciably with the introduction of
new all-male varieties, but high-yielding bisexual types
also would contribute effectively.
Research and Extension Five-year Projection
Continued and increased funding is needed for breeding
and Integrated Pest Management. An extension specialist is
needed for training field staff, development research and
to oversee variety introduction. Extension field staff
should be exposed to cultural-management practices in the
other major producing areas. Research is needed in
postharvest/storage physiology. Exploration of new methods
of bio-control and auto-toxicity should be conducted.
Industry efforts to secure state and federal funding need
support.
Pickling Cucumbers
Michigan is the largest producer of pickling cucumbers
for processing in the United States with approximately
25,500 acres planted per year and a net value of $25
million for the green stock. Michigan processes
approximately 35% of all the pickled cucumbers marketed in
the U.S., significantly more than are supplied by Michigan
growers alone. Pickle processing enhances the value of the
product as well as employs a relatively large labor force.
Industry Strengths
Numerous pickle processing companies are located
within Michigan. These companies have been attracted to
the region because: 1) environmental conditions are
conducive to producing high quality fruit; 2) fertile soils
and water for irrigation are readily available; 3) the
incidences of disease and insect pests are relatively low;
4) there is the potential for either machine harvest or
multiple hand-harvested production; 5) high yields can be
achieved; and 6) there has been good research and extension
support.
The pickle industry continues to be retained in
Michigan in part due to the efforts of an active industry
organization, Pickle Packers International.
From a grower perspective, pickling cucumbers are a
desirable crop to produce because: 1) the market demand and
pricing are stable, thus providing a relatively consistent
profit potential; 2) pickling cucumbers require relatively
low inputs in terms of capital investment, fertilizers and
pesticides; 3) the crop production season is relatively
short and does not conflict with the planting and harvest
schedules of other fruit and vegetable crops, thus allowing
for efficient use of labor; and 4) varieties have been
developed which are adapted to the Midwest cultural
conditions.
Industry Weaknesses
The primary weakness of the pickling cucumber industry
is the limited potential for growth due to a limited market
demand. The low value of the crop also limits profit
potential, thus requiring the use of efficient cultural
management practices.
Although summer environmental conditions are
typically favorable for production, short periods of low
rainfall adversely affect both fruit yield and quality if
irrigation is not provided. Pickling cucumbers are highly
sensitive to drought stress. Moderately low temperatures
(<50øC) in late May and June can cause chilling injury,
leading to problems in field establishment.
Hand-harvest of pickling cucumbers is very labor-
intensive, making the industry vulnerable to labor
shortages. On the other hand, the cucumber harvest
schedule fits well into the overall need for seasonal labor
in Michigan.
Insects are managed effectively, and only a single
insecticide is involved, but its use has been cancelled on
almost all other crops for environmental reasons.
Importation of the Varroa and trachael mites into Michigan
has killed many honeybee colonies and will affect
pollination and yield in 1992 and beyond.
Government regulations that do not allow share-
cropping may force out hand-picking production.
Environmental Situation
Few environmental problems are associated with
pickling cucumber production due to the low inputs of
fertilizer and pesticides. Disposal of salt used in
brining is a problem for processors.
Industry Competition
Due to the difficulty in mechanically harvesting small
size-graded fruit, a significant amount of pickling
cucumber production has been established in Mexico where
labor is readily available. In addition, a high priority
of processors is to select growers with the capability to
irrigate a crop. Certain areas of Indiana and other nearby
states with irrigated land are thus competing strongly with
Michigan growers for contract acreage.
Research/Extension Strengths
An interdisciplinary team of researchers, the MSU
Pickle Research Committee, is organized and active in
addressing current and long-term research needs of the
pickling cucumber industry. This team is comprised of a
geneticist, plant physiologist, weed management specialist,
postharvest physiologist, food scientist, plant
pathologist, agriculture engineer, and an entomologist.
(Note: These researchers and extension specialists are the
same persons mentioned in the previous sections. They are
spread thinly over all these areas.) Excellent interaction
exists between this university-based research team and
industry, both at the state and national levels. The
industry, through the Pickle and Pepper Research Committee
for MSU and the Seed Research Foundation, provides support
for several research projects each year. However, the level
of funding is low relative to the size of the industry.
Michigan State University has been viewed
traditionally by the industry as a center of research
excellence in machine-harvest technology and in cultural
management for machine-harvest production. In addition,
research programs have been established in basic genetics
and in environmental physiology and growth/development of
pickling cucumbers. Weed management research also
continues to be a strong component of the pickling cucumber
research program at MSU.
Research/Extension Weaknesses
The major weakness is the lack of an extension program
for pickling cucumbers and integrated research on cultural
management. These two deficiencies arose as a result of
the loss of a vegetable extension position from Department
of Horticulture in 1990. An active extension program is
essential to provide the necessary support needed to
maintain the competitiveness of one of Michigan's largest
vegetable industries.
Funding for research and extension activities on
pickling cucumbers also is considered inadequate because
individual grants are generally insufficient in amount
($5,000 to $7,000 maximum) and duration (one to two years)
to finance graduate assistantships. Consequently, it is
difficult to achieve long-term research goals and maintain
consistency of effort on projects.
Research/Extension Environment
Considering the value and strength of the industry in
Michigan, the industry should be able to make a greater
financial commitment to research and extension on pickling
cucumbers.
Competition/Cooperation
The primary public research programs on pickling
cucumbers are located at North Carolina State University,
Ohio State University, University of Wisconsin (USDA),
Texas A & M University and Michigan State University.
These programs interact and cooperate at the national level
as evidenced by the activities of the Pickling Cucumber
Improvement Committee. Because of the similarities in
environmental conditions and cultural practices, the
research priorities of ARS/USDA program at the University
of Wisconsin are more similar to those at MSU, although
their main focus is on genetic improvement.
Because of the number of public research programs
nationally, there is some competition for research grant
support, primarily in the areas of plant breeding and
genetics. Less funding is committed to physiological and
cultural research.
Industry Five-year Projection
It is projected that the pickling cucumber industry
will continue to remain strong and relatively stable in
Michigan. Since the market demand for pickling cucumbers
is not likely to increase much in the future, only small
growth, if any, is anticipated. Profitability of
production and processing systems relative to other regions
of the country ultimately will determine the long-term
future of this industry within the state.
Research and Extension Weaknesses
The use of chemical pesticides in pickling cucumber
production will continue to be a major concern of the
processing industry. Alternative strategies for weed,
disease and insect management will be needed, with only a
few pesticides currently registered on cucumbers and the
prospect of losing even some of these in the future.
Several pickle processing plants are old and need
renovation. With improved postharvest handling
technologies, it may become economical to transport green
stock to newer, more centrally located processing plants in
the Midwest. In addition, the industry has been highly
volatile in recent years as a result of frequent company
mergers. Changes in company ownership often are
accompanied by changes in priorities. The availability of
labor for hand harvest and government restrictions will
continue to be limiting factors. Labor-associated concerns
may contribute to increased acreage being planted for
machine harvest and elimination of cucumber acreage on some
farms. (This is already happening.)
Industry Competition
Production acreage will continue to increase in Mexico
as long as they produce a high quality product.
Research/Extension Five-year Projection
A position committed at least in part to pickling
cucumber extension and cultural management research is
critical if the future needs and problems of the industry
are to be addressed adequately. This position would not
only serve as an interface between the Agriculture
Experiment Station programs and the industry but also would
function to provide leadership to the pickle research team
on campus.
Significantly increased outside financial support
from the pickling cucumber industry and associated service
organizations (e.g., seed companies, chemical companies,
etc.) is essential for continuing our current research
commitment.
The susceptibility of pickling cucumbers to
environmental stresses (drought, low temperature) needs to
be addressed.
Due to the relatively few insect and disease problems
associated with pickling cucumber production, excellent
potential exists for developing cultural management
strategies with limited use of pesticides. With the
appropriate research, pickling cucumber cultural practices
could be developed to the point where pickling cucumbers
would be considered an environmentally "safe" crop.
VEGETABLES GROWN PRIMARILY ON ORGANIC SOILS
The major vegetable crops grown on organic (muck)
soils are onions (8,000 acres, $17 million), carrots (7,000
acres, $17 million), celery (3,500 acres, $14 million),
radish (5,500 acres, $7 million), and lettuce (1,000 acres,
$4 million). Other muck vegetable crops include parsley,
parsnip, leaf lettuce (610 acres), turnip (290 acres), and
cole crops. The muck crops together return about $60
million to the growers, out of the total return for
Michigan vegetable production of $140 million. Most of the
muck crops are packed for shipment within and outside of
Michigan, east of the Mississippi River.
There are several major muck production areas and
several smaller areas. The major areas are in Newaygo
County (Grant), Ottawa County (Hudsonville), Kent County
(Byron Center), Allegan County (Fennville and Gun Marsh),
Ingham County (Stockbridge), and Lapeer County (Imlay
City). Other counties with significant muck vegetable
production are Van Buren, Calhoun, Jackson, Ionia, Clinton,
and Kalamazoo.
Onions, radishes, and lettuce are grown only for
fresh market. About 30% of the carrots produced and 25% of
the celery are processed. As a group, the muck crops are
produced by sophisticated growers with many years of
experience. Most of the muck farms in Michigan have been
owned by the same families for several generations. The
production is packed well, cooled, and shipped in large
quantities. Some growers pack their own produce, and some
rely on cooperatives or independent packer-shippers to move
their produce. As a rule, the quality of these vegetables
is good to very good.
Industry Strengths
The muck vegetable industry has a history of producing
high quality produce. Growers are experienced and
understand their crops well. They also understand the need
for research, and have formed research committees and
support research at MSU (carrot, celery, onion), although
at modest levels.
Michigan has good soil and adequate water to produce
these crops. Most growers use irrigation to grow produce
with consistent quality and yields. Our climate is ideal
for production of these crops.
Michigan generally is within a two-day drive of 60%
of the U.S. population and has a shipping advantage
compared to many other states.
We have had adequate labor to meet production
demands. These crops are highly mechanized (except
lettuce), so the major labor need is in packinghouses.
Industry Weaknesses
The single greatest threat to muck vegetable
production is marketplace competition. Other states
(primarily California) ship produce into eastern markets
throughout the year to maintain their customers and market
share. They often sell at a considerable loss to undercut
other producers and maintain their market position. In
the past, western growers dropped out of the seasonal
markets, leaving a profitable window for our producers.
However, many of our growers are suffering financial
distress as a result of low prices.
Although our climate is ideal for these crops, it can
be irregular. Droughts or floods have occurred during five
of the past ten years. These tend to disrupt supply and
quality, and send buyers to more reliable areas.
Vegetable crops are minor crops in the world of
agriculture. Chemical companies register fewer pesticides
for these crops, and many pesticides have been lost in the
reregistration process. Consumer concerns for pesticide
residues often are aimed at fresh and processed fruits and
vegetables, and some processing and packing companies
demand that certain pesticides be excluded from use.
Without adequate pesticides, it is difficult to grow many
of these crops.
Long-term production in the same areas and mono-
cropping have led to pest problems. Nematodes, weeds, and
soil-borne diseases especially tend to increase with
limited crop rotation. Several pests have developed
resistance to available pesticides.
Muck soils decline in productivity when farmed for a
long time. The organic matter erodes away or oxidizes in
the air, and about one inch of depth is lost per year.
Some shallow mucks are already, in reality, high-organic
mineral soils.
Industry Competition
Our primary competition for most crops is California.
Onions are produced in other western states and New York.
Celery and leafy greens are produced in Florida, but mostly
in the winter months. Muck crop production in neighboring
states is more complementary than competitive.
Industry Five-year Projection
Major muck crops should be able to maintain production
at current levels with adequate help from MSU. Quality
control has to be improved so that all Michigan produce
will have an excellent reputation in the marketplace.
Michigan produce needs to meet standards set by western
growers. If MSU is unable to provide adequate support, the
industry could decline over the next five years.
Research/Extension Strengths
Michigan has the largest muck soil research station in
the northern U.S. There are faculty at MSU in the
Departments of Horticulture, Crop and Soil Sciences, Botany
and Plant Pathology, and Entomology (.25 FTE from
Entomology) who address the problems of muck crops. There
are also several Extension agents in the field with
expertise in muck crops.
Several vegetable commodity groups assess themselves
on a per container basis and use the proceeds to support
research at MSU.
Research/Extension Weaknesses
It is difficult to service the industry with
inadequate personnel. All the production-related
departments are currently understaffed due to resignations
and retirements. Without innovative research and
extension, Michigan's position in the market may continue
to erode.
Research/Extension Five-year Projection
Resources for the next five years probably will be
about static, or may decline. If personnel resign or
retire, they probably will not be replaced unless the
industry expresses its concern to the administration.
Thus, without new resources, there will be a net decline in
research and extension to support the vegetable industry.
Onion
Michigan ranks ninth in U.S. production of onions,
with 8,000 acres and $17 million value. Michigan onions
are used almost entirely for fresh market. Most of them
are pungent storage onions which are marketed from August
to April. There is some production of sweet onions from
transplants for marketing off the field.
Industry Strengths
Michigan is the nation's second largest producer of
northern storage onions, after New York. Michigan growers
have a long history of production of generally high-quality
onions, and marketing channels are well established with
Michigan being close to major population centers. Onion
consumption has increased steadily over the past 10 years,
since onions have been promoted as a healthy, nutritious
food. Although profit margins are small, onion growers as
a group have maintained profitability. The industry
supports research at MSU through a production assessment.
Industry Weaknesses
The fastest growing segment of the onion market is for
large, sweet onions. Michigan's climate and growing season
are not well suited for production of most current
cultivars of this type. Western onion producers ship their
small onions east at low prices, competing directly with
Michigan onions. It is relatively easy to get into and out
of onion production, so the market often is saturated.
High prices and profits usually occur when adverse weather
wipes out a significant portion of the crop somewhere in
the U.S. Packinghouse waste disposal is becoming a major
problem.
Industry Competition
Michigan competes with all onion growing regions of
the U.S. The most serious competition is from small
western onions.
Industry Five-year Projection
The industry should remain at current levels of
production during the next five years. With new large,
sweet cultivars developed for Michigan, production may
increase. There is a trend toward a shift of acreage from
marginal mucks to sandy mineral soils.
Research and Extension Strengths
There is currently research at MSU on plant breeding,
disease modelling for control recommendations, disease
control, weed control, crop nutrition, cultivar evaluation,
and storage. Growers support research with an assessment
based on production.
Research and Extension Weaknesses
Insufficient time and funding are impediments to more
effective research on onions. More work needs to be done
on cultivar development, precision seeding, integrated pest
management, nematode control, storage, market development,
and waste handling and disposal.
Research and Extension Five-year Projection
Anticipated faculty and staff retirements may leave
major gaps in our ability to respond to grower needs.
Growers may increase their level of funding for research
and promotion.
Carrot
Michigan ranks third in carrot production in the U.S.,
with about 7,000 acres and $17 million value. Seventy
percent of carrots are packed for fresh market and 30% are
processed. Cull carrots sold for deer food have become a
significant portion of the total crop value.
Industry Strengths
The Michigan industry has a long history of producing
good quality carrots. Marketing channels are well
established. Muck soils are well suited for carrot
production. Most fields have sufficient water for
irrigation. Seed companies have developed many good
cultivars for Michigan conditions. The growers assess
themselves to support research at MSU.
Industry Weaknesses
Competition from California has eroded some
traditional markets. Continuous production on the same
land has led to serious nematode problems in some areas.
Most nematocides have been removed from the market because
of environmental concerns, making it difficult to grow
carrots on heavily infested soil. Irregular weather during
recent years has resulted in irregular carrot quality,
which has made marketing even more difficult. Many growers
are in serious financial shape.
Industry Competition
Carrot production and marketing in the U.S. are
controlled by several large firms based in California.
They have continued to increase their share of the market,
making it difficult for smaller operators to compete. This
trend is likely to continue.
Industry Five-year Projection
Michigan carrot production is likely to decline
somewhat if markets and profitability do not improve. Loss
of pesticides and nematocides will make it more difficult
to produce carrots in the future. Closeness to markets
will help maintain Michigan's share if transportation costs
increase.
Research and Extension Strengths
MSU faculty have been involved in carrot research for
many years. There is current research on weed control,
insect control, plant disease forecasting and control,
nematode control, and crop nutrition. The industry has
recognized the need for research and assesses itself on a
production basis to support research at MSU.
Research and Extension Weaknesses
Funding for research is limited. It will be difficult
to overcome the major limitations facing the industry, ie.,
increased competition, irregular weather, and nematodes.
Research and Extension Five-year Projection
Priorities in research and extension will be crop
management to improve production with fewer pesticides.
Improving quality and maintaining markets will also be
important. The level of activity will be similar to
current levels.
Celery
Michigan ranks third in celery production in the U.S.,
with 3,500 acres and $14 million value. Most of the crop
is packed for fresh market; about 25% is processed into
juice, soup, or precut stalks and crescents.
Industry Strengths
Michigan has a long history of celery production.
Most growers have been in the business for many years and
know how to grow their crop well. Marketing channels are
well-established. Most growing areas have sufficient water
for irrigation. Growers of about 50% of total production
belong to a marketing cooperative that helps maintain
quality and prices. The industry assesses itself on a
production basis to support research at MSU.
Industry Weaknesses
Because celery has been grown on the same land for
many years, nematodes and soil-borne diseases are
persistent problems. Fusarium yellows is an especially
serious soilborne disease that threatens the industry.
Highly resistant cultivars need to be developed, along with
cultural strategies for managing the causal fungus. Celery
requires high amounts of fertilizer and pesticide inputs,
which may lead to groundwater concerns.
Industry Competition
California ships high quality celery into eastern
markets throughout the year. In recent years California
shippers have protected very aggressively their markets.
Thus, it has been difficult to maintain or expand
Michigan's share of the market.
Industry Five-year Projection
The industry is expected to maintain itself at present
levels or decline slightly. Cultivars resistant to
Fusarium yellows are essential to maintain the industry.
In the longer term, the industry may decline as family
members leave the farms and environmental concerns cause
increased pressure for less use of pesticides near
inhabited areas.
Research and Extension Strengths
There are currently ongoing research projects at MSU
in celery breeding and genetics, disease forecasting and
control, integrated pest management, weed control, crop
nutrition, and cultivar evaluation. This research is
supported by the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station,
U.S. Department of Agriculture, and celery growers. Support
for a celery IPM program from Campbell Soup has ended. MSU
has excellent facilities in laboratory, greenhouse, and
field to conduct research. Field Extension staff have some
expertise in celery production.
Research and Extension Weaknesses
Funding is always limited. Faculty are spread across
many commodities so they have limited time for each crop.
Research and Extension Five-year Projection
Sufficient funding is needed to maintain current
programs. If current trends continue, funding will
decline. An anticipated research/extension faculty
retirements within the next five years would leave a void
in the plant pathology and plant breeding area (an
interdisciplinary effort between the Departments of Botany
and Plant Pathology and Horticulture). Refilling this
position with a qualified pathologist is essential to
continue celery work. Marketing and market development
will be important to maintain our current market share.
Lettuce
Lettuce (head and leaf) is a relatively minor crop in
Michigan, with about 1,000 acres of head and 600 acres of
leafy types. Total value is about $6 million. Much of the
production is used within Michigan, and some is shipped to
markets in the eastern U.S.
Industry Strengths
Lettuce is one of the most popular vegetable crops, so
the market demand is always high. Michigan has good soil
for lettuce production, and most fields have irrigation.
Michigan head lettuce is of a different type than
California lettuce and fills some niche markets. Michigan
leaf lettuce is of good quality and has good acceptance in
the trade.
Industry Weaknesses
The industry is small and unorganized. The quality of
Michigan head lettuce is erratic due to uncertain weather
conditions. There are insufficient pesticides available
for good lettuce production. Competition from other states
tends to keep prices low.
Industry Competition
California and other dry, western states produce most
of the head lettuce consumed in the U.S. They control the
market, leaving little space for local product. Many
states produce leaf lettuce, including Ohio, Illinois, and
New Jersey.
Industry Five-year Projection
Production of head lettuce will probably remain
constant or decline. There will be little chance for
increased production as long as California dominates the
market. Leaf lettuce production should remain constant or
increase slightly.
Research and Extension Strengths
Extension personnel are knowledgeable in lettuce
production and are able to help farmers solve problems.
Research and Extension Weaknesses
Very little research on lettuce is currently being
done at MSU and there is no industry funding for research
on these crops. Since lettuce is a relatively minor crop,
the lettuce industry is served on an ad hoc basis rather
than as part of a full-time program.
Research and Extension 5-year Projection
These crops should continue to be served on an ad hoc
basis. There is little justification for spending time and
money when other, more important crops also need attention.
SUMMARY
STATUS AND POTENTIAL OF MICHIGAN AGRICULTURE VEGETABLES
Michigan vegetable crops are discussed in two major
groupings, those grown primarily on mineral soils and those
grown primarily on organic soils. Within these the major
crop groupings are fresh market warm-season vegetables,
miscellaneous/specialty vegetables, snap beans and tomatoes
for processing, asparagus, and pickling cucumbers (mineral
soils); and onion, carrot, celery and lettuce (organic
soils). For each category, both industry and MSU
strengths, weaknesses, environmental situations, and
competition are analyzed and discussed.
10-year projections for the industry as a whole
include: little change in production, acreage or location,
variable annual profitability with potential for decline
based on recent trends in prices received, reduced usage of
inputs except for irrigation which should increase,
increased emphasis on quality, continued need for and
adoption of new varieties, more computer-driven management,
expanded marketing emphasis, and rapid adoption of new
technologies.
Warm-season vegetables are especially vulnerable to
low prices received. Growers of these crops are poorly
organized. The diversity of crops with a high labor
requirement make these growers highly vulnerable to
environmental, pesticide and labor regulations.
Opportunities exist to expand in specialty crop production.
Processing vegetables fit well into Michigan's vegetable
picture, but there is limited opportunity for growth.
Asparagus markets are threatened by large production
in Washington, California and Mexico--the Mexican Free
Trade Agreement could offer a serious challenge. New
plantings of hybrid varieties are essential to
competitiveness.
Pickling cucumbers will remain an important Michigan
crop despite very high levels of production in many other
states. Michigan's consistent production, high quality and
processing facilities are a distinct advantage. However,
growth is unlikely.
Michigan's "muck growers" are backed by a generation
of experience and a reputation for high quality as well as
a good geographic location relative to climate and markets.
Competition from other areas and low prices are the
greatest threat, followed by environmental concerns and
loss of soils by oxidation and erosion. Most major muck
crop acreages are likely to remain steady or decrease.
MSU's strengths lie in a core of state and county
researchers/extension workers who have established strong
ties to the various clientele groups. The limitation of
research funds and especially the lack of industry support
by the less organized facets of the industry severely
restrict the addressing of industy problems. Very limited
extension funds and the inability to fill vacant extension
positions will be a serious problem in the years ahead, and
this may become even more severe as retirements occur.
Areas of concern common to all of agriculture which
will require major research efforts include loss of
registered pesticides, ground and surface water
contamination, and food safety (residues).