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Abstract

The study examined air and soil temperature readings, growing degree days, and chilling hours recorded in two Wiregrass tunnel houses during the 2018-2019 season. The monthly average ambient temperature, was 15OF warmer inside the Tunnel House (75/60OF) during the Cool/Cold months, and 17OF warmer inside (90/73OF) during the Warm/Hot seasons of 2018 and 2019. Growing Degree Days heat unit (HU) accumulations were higher inside than outside 4,154 vs. 3,153 HU for the Cool/Cold months and 5,134 vs. 4,800 HU for the Warm/Hot months. Chilling hour accumulations were lower inside the tunnel houses than outside the tunnel houses, 601vs. 671 hr. Utilizing the temperature data from this study, a planting guide consisting of a Cool/Cold (September-February) season and Warm/Hot (March-August) season was developed for a list of crops which producers could plant. The results of this study provides information for growers to better plan their crop choices and planting schedules.

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