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Under the direction of Dr. Nzaramyimana Theoneste, a group of four graduate students and three undergraduate students at Kentucky State University conducted research on urban farming. Urban agriculture focuses on generating fresh produce and making it accessible to areas that lack access to it. This research took place at the Dr. Harold R. Benson Research Farm and The Kentucky State University West Farm. Throughout the duration of three months, research associates seeded, transplanted, grew, and harvested 15 different species of fruits and vegetables.

Research associates began by tilling the land and implementing plastic mulching to protect crops from weeds and pests. Plastic mulching involves laying plastic sheeting over soil to suppress weeds, conserve moisture, and regulate soil temperature. A drip irrigation system was also implemented. Seedlings were first grown in a greenhouse because it offered several advantages including the ability to regulate temperature, humidity, and light; reducing the risk of transplant shock; and producing more resilient and adaptable plants. After transplanting the plants from the greenhouse, they easily adapted to their new environment and produced high yields of fresh produce in just a few months. Yellow summer squash, zucchini, and pickling cucumbers produced the highest yields.

During the project, research associates recognized the need to adjust their harvesting methods to ensure the quality of their produce. For example, for vegetables such as squash and zucchini, it was found it was best to harvest when they had reached 6-8 inches long. If harvested too late, they become full of water, lack flavor, and are at a higher risk of rotting and spreading fungus. During the project, research associates also battled, Phytophthora blight, which is a disease caused by the fungus-like organism Phytophthora capsica, also known as water mold. Although this disease can be caused by a number of factors, it was concluded that the crops developed this from overwatering.

Land management was another major challenge due to the overgrowth of weeds and the watermelon plants. Frequent weeding was needed to ensure crops were not losing resources. The watermelon plants also threatened the collard plants and zucchini crops due to overgrowth. Pruning and/or a use of a trellis to control the watermelon plants is the proposed solution for this.

Overall, the project produced 7,127 pounds of crops that students donated to local community shelters, students, staff, and faculty. Adjustments to management practices of crop land will be encouraged for future research.