RAYMOND -- Tomato growers from around the world will attend Mississippi State University’s 23rd annual national Greenhouse Tomato Short Course March 5 and 6 at the Eagle Ridge Conference Center in Raymond, Miss.

The conference is open to current growers and those interested in starting a greenhouse tomato operation. Experts from MSU, Louisiana State University Ag Center, Auburn University, and the tomato industry will present information on greenhouse system components, greenhouse design and engineering, alternative heating options, marketing, budgeting, current research, plant nutrition, alternative crops, physiological disorders, plant diagnostics, disease identification and control, and pest management.

The event is a comprehensive workshop for the greenhouse tomato industry, designed to keep growers up-to-date on current research and help interested individuals determine whether the industry is right for them. The short course is the longest-running training in the United States for greenhouse tomato growers. In past years, this workshop has attracted participants from more than 25 states and around the world, including the Caribbean islands, Mexico and Latin America.

Exhibitors from throughout the United States and Canada will display their products. Advanced registration is $150 per person and must be received by Feb. 22. Registration at the door is $175 per person.

Registration includes coffee, refreshments, three meals, educational materials and special promotional items. For a complete agenda, directions, a list of suggested hotels, or to register online, visit http://www.greenhousetomatosc.com.

For more information, visit the website or contact Rick Snyder at rick.snyder@msstate.edu or 601-892-3731.

Growers who preregister will receive the newest Greenhouse Tomato Short Course cap as well as a tomato coffee mug.