Selection of Horticultural Crops for a Small-scale Integrated Farm System in the Tropical Environment of Guam

An integrated model farm at the University of Guam aims to be a profitable agricultural system while conserving natural resources and meeting consumer demands.  The farm consists of three sections: (1) horticultural field crop production, (2) aquaponics, and (3) cage-free egg production in agroforestry.  The integrated production system emphasizes biodiversity, a multiple cropping system, utilization of renewable farm resources, and soil and water conservation.  The aquaponics system adds a new horticultural practice in the tropics, suggesting a great potential for leafy lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) and sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) for local markets. Additional income comes from calamansi (xCitrofortunella microcarpa) and Ti leaf, Cordyline fruticosa (L.) A. Chev and hot pepper (Capsicum annuum L.).  Several other vegetable crops are grown for short periods of time; however, the return has been negligible in the farm operation.  This case study presents selection of horticultural crops for a small-scale integrated model farm in the tropical urban environment of Guam based on selection criteria including plant adaptability to tropical island environments, the farm operation system and consumer acceptance.