By Andi Anderson
A horticulture research station plays an important role in combining education, research, and community service. Students gain practical experience by working on farms where they grow fruits, vegetables, and other crops throughout the year. This hands-on learning helps them understand real farming practices and prepares them for future careers.
At the station, students take part in daily activities such as planting, watering, harvesting, and maintaining equipment. They also support marketing efforts and learn how farm produce reaches consumers. Most of the work is carried out manually, which helps students build strong skills and confidence.
Researchers from different fields, including horticulture, plant science, and environmental studies, work together at the station. Their goal is to improve farming practices and test new ideas. Students indirectly support this work by managing crops and maintaining research plots.
“We work together to map out the planting, and then our job is to help make sure that all of the plants, research and non-research, stay alive throughout the growing season,”
Henscheid said. “We're responsible for the planting, irrigating, spraying, setting up research plots, harvesting and tackling any other issues that arise.”
The station grows a variety of crops such as fruits, vegetables, and berries. It also supports environmental projects like prairie restoration and wildlife research. This makes the station a place where agriculture and nature work together.
Students play a key role in operations. Many begin with little knowledge of farming but learn essential skills over time.
“Most students come in not knowing much about farming,” Henscheid said. “We teach them anything and everything, from horticulture basics to tractor repair. By the time they leave, they have skills they can use in their careers and in daily life.”
The station works year-round, preparing for each growing season. During winter, tasks include pruning plants and repairing equipment.
The produce grown is shared with the community. Fresh fruits and vegetables are supplied to dining centers, local markets, and community programs.
“We produce so much here, and it all has somewhere to go,” Henscheid said. “Whether it’s our local dining centers, local farms or direct sales, it stays in the community. I think there’s something special about that.”
Photo Credit: gettyimages-lisegagne
Categories: Iowa, Education