Grafting of Tomatoes for Soil-based Production in Protected Culture
Judson Reid, Extension Vegetable Specialist
Cornell Vegetable Program
Soil based greenhouse and high tunnel production of tomatoes has risen dramatically in the Finger Lakes Region within the last 5 years. This season extension technology offers farmers an opportunity to target market price peaks and capitalize on the rising demand for locally grown produce. Tomatoes from these protected culture systems have proven profitable in wholesale auction settings as well as farmer's markets and CSAs.
As production continues in the same soil beds, risk of root-zone diseases and soil nutrient deficiencies increase. Grafting of desirable fruiting varieties onto vigorous, disease resistant rootstock has become a standard production technique in hydroponic facilities throughout the world. This project seeks to evaluate the potential of grafting for small scale farmers in New York and demonstrate its advantages.
Grafting of Tomatoes for Soil-based Production in Protected Culture (pdf; 31KB)

Upcoming Events
Small Vegetable Workshop
August 13, 2026
Fulton, NY
Identify vegetables that make sense to grow on small acreage, including under high and low tunnel season extension. Bill Ingersoll, owner of Ingersoll Farms, will provide a short tour and discuss other important factors of running a mixed vegetable farm, including a farm stand and selling at farmers' markets.
Chipping Potato and Field Crops Twilight Meeting
August 27, 2026
Dansville, NY
This year, our field meeting is bringing together field crops and chipping potatoes. SWNY Dairy, Livestock, and Field Crops Specialist Katelyn Miller will lead a field crops management discussion. Hear the latest updates in potato disease control and see the Cornell chipping potato variety trial run by Walter De Jong. Dinner follows the educational event.
1.5 DEC credits available in 10, 1a, 21, and 23.