Dry Farmed Tomato Production
What is dry farming?
According to Jim Leap, Farm Manager, Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems, “Dry farming is a term commonly used by growers and consumers here on the Central Coast of California to describe summer harvested orchard, vineyard and vegetable crops grown to maturation without the application of supplemental irritation water from sources other than winter rainfall. This method of production for annual crops is fairly unique to our region and requires a very specific set of criteria for it to be successfully implemented. Though many crops can be grown utilizing dry farming techniques, the most notable in our region is tomatoes.”
Different Resources on Dry Farming
Factsheets
Overview of Dry Farming on the Central California Coast, by Jim Leap
Dry Farming – California Agricultural Water Stewardship Initiative
How to Dry Farm Tomatoes in Contra Costa
Dry Farming Example - Molino Creek Farm Collective
Oregon State University - Dry Farming Collaborative
Dry Farming Techniques in the Maritime Pacific Northwest
California Water Stewards: Innovative On-farm Water Management Practices