We understand your concerns about the chemicals which are regularly used on produce and we are committed to providing you with a convenient and affordable alternative. 

10-acres of certified organic farmland supports our gardens and greenhouses. 
We raise laying hens to provide you with free-range eggs. No medication, antibiotics, hormones or booster feeds have been used. 

We grow seasonal fruits and vegetables in an environment of sustainable agriculture. 

S0, WHAT DOES THAT MEAN TO YOU?

IT MEANS that we are building the soil structure on our farm by returning nutrients to the soil in the way of composted materials and cover crops. No concentrated quick-grow synthetic chemicals are added to the soil. We allow them to grow as nature intended. 

IT MEANS that we encourage a balanced control of insects. Each year we find that we sustain less and less crop damage due to pests because the predatory insects, such as beneficial nematodes, preying mantis & ladybugs are developing a foothold and are able to keep the destructive insects at bay. We constantly monitor the situation of course, and take steps to increase the ranks of the beneficial insects if necessary. 

IT MEANS we spend many hours cultivating and mulching to keep down weeds which compete for nutrients and sunlight. 

IT MEANS that YOU receive nutritious food grown from seeds which have not been genetically altered and are free of herbicide and pesticide residues. 

Organic produce is grown without the use of any synthetic pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers. Farming organically is a method of farming that involves the whole farm as a system creating a more balanced environment which may require less inputs in the long run. Problems such as weeds still arise for the farmer but these are usually handled with hand labour and the addition of very strictly regulated natural, environmentally friendly inputs. 

What Does "Certified" Mean?

Being a certified organic farm means that the farm has been free of synthetic chemicals for a minimum of three years. The farmer then applies to have an independent inspector visit. They fill out detailed plans for crop rotation and proposed land use, which are then sent to one of the certifying agencies in the area. A board decides whether the farm meets all the criteria included in their standards. If they do, a certificate is issued. This process is completed every year. Farmers who choose to farm this way are committed to this method of farming because it costs money to be certified as well as the extra labour that is usually involved in organic farming. 

Is There A Difference?

Some people do taste a difference in organic produce, some say it is sweeter. It all depends on the soil, as different minerals are what gives organic fruits their flavour, and these can vary from place to place and year to year. Since fruits and vegetables start out as small seeds they are a product of what is found in the soil and the care taken to grow them. 

...But Organic Produce Does Not Look As Nice!

Organic farmers have been working hard to produce fruits and vegetables for you. Things have changed from a few years ago when organic apples were scabby and vegetables were funny shapes. In many cases now it is hard to tell the difference between conventional and organic produce. If properly cared for from harvest time until it gets to your table, organic produce can last as long and look as good as other produce. In some cases farmers use seed varieties called Heritage seeds which have been grown for many years. Since some of these varieties were grown before there was wide-scale use of refrigeration, they may even last longer. Organic produce may not always be perfect but remember: it's what's inside that counts. 

How Do I Look After Organic Produce?

Organic fruits and vegetables require the same care as conventional. If you are not sure how to store a particular item, ask your produce manager. And fruits and vegetables require proper handling to maintain freshness and nutritional content. Wash and prepare the same way you always do. 

Why Is It More Expensive?

Generally the cost of organic produce has to do with economies of scale and supply & demand. Prices of organic fruits and vegetables vary throughout the year and with weather conditions. Since there is not as large a supply of organic produce it seems to be affected, by these aspects more readily than other produce. Organic farms are usually smaller and have to rely on distribution system to get their product to market. Many organic farmers do not qualify for government subsidies so being able to get a little more money for what they produce provides a more realistic income for them. 

Why Should I Buy Organic Fruits and Vegetables?

• Offers an alternative for those people who have sensitivities to some foods.
• Supports local and family farms which are rapidly disappearing.
• Supports good environmental practices of crop rotation, soil building and erosion prevention. These practices go beyond the farm fence to affect all creatures living in the area.