Vegetable Cropping Systems Lab

Led by Dr. Mark Uchanski, our lab advances the science of vegetable and specialty crop production to help Colorado growers innovate and succeed. We study new production technologies for season extension and protected culture — high tunnels, greenhouses, and LED lighting — along with variety trials, new-crop introduction, and disease management for the vegetables and specialty crops that matter across the region. We also coordinate CSU's Interdisciplinary Program in Organic Agriculture, giving students and growers a science-based foundation in organic production. From research farms throughout the state, we translate field results into practical guidance growers can put to work.

Specialty Crops Research Across Colorado

Dr. Mark Uchanski coordinates the Specialty Crops Program in the Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, leading a team of graduate students and research associates. Our projects investigate new production technologies for season extension, LED greenhouse lighting for tomatoes and strawberries, organic variety trials through the Northern Organic Vegetable Improvement Collaborative, new crops such as Aronia and hops, and disease suppression in onions. We carry out this work at research sites across the state — including ARDEC South, the Horticulture Center in Fort Collins, and the Western Colorado Research Center — so results reflect the real conditions Colorado growers face.

Read More

Rooted in Organic and Sustainable Production

Alongside our specialty crops research, we lead CSU's Interdisciplinary Studies Program in Organic Agriculture — a unique, hands-on path for students exploring the science of organic food and fiber production. From composting and organic soil fertility to greenhouse production and required farm internships, the program connects classroom learning to working farms across Colorado.

Publications

Learn more about the ways the Uchanski lab is advancing specialty crops and organic production research — from season extension and greenhouse innovation to organic systems — to help Colorado growers strengthen their competitiveness and success.

View All Publications

News & Updates

view all

Contact Information

mailing address

301 University Ave, Room 110
Fort Collins, CO 80523

phone

(970) 491-4885

e-mail mark.uchanski@colostate.edu