In a couple weeks, the tunnel-like structures at the west side of the Garden City Lands will move on their rails, extending the growing season for lettuce and spinach and other greens currently growing in an open plot.
This will extend the growing season for these leafy greens as the “passive solar” greenhouse structure protects them against the elements during cooler fall weather.
For anyone wanting to learn more about the certified organic farm, run by Kwantlen Polytechnic instructors and students on the west side of the Garden City Lands, the final Twilight Tour of the year will be held this coming Tuesday (Oct. 10).
Its theme is “season extension” as the farm prepares to continue producing food as cooler weather prevails.
Leafy greens don’t like being under cover in summer, but in cooler weather moving the tunnel structure over them will extend their growing season, explained Andy Smith, farm manager.
Using the tunnel as a “passive solar greenhouse” – with no heat lamps – traps solar radiation in the day, warming up the soil. While the air might cool in the nighttime, the soil remains warm that helps the produce keep growing.
The farm – which produces food sold at a weekly farmers market in Richmond – is continuing to expand and will eventually encompass about 20 acres of the 150-acre Garden City Lands.
The last Twilight Tour at KPU Farm at Garden City Lands takes place Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.
It will be led by Rebecca Harbut, faculty member of the department of sustainable agriculture at KPU.
Those interested in the tour should meet in front of the dome at 5500 Garden City Rd.
The tours will start up again in May.
