Vegetables with NO Chemicals

Ken has grown in accordance with organic standards since buying the property in 1976. Prior to that the land had been logged during the depression for cash and pastured into the 1950's, and left until Ken bought it as young woods. The fact it had not been farmed conventionally made the land really attractive.

During an early season of CSA we experienced problems with the strawberries - the dreaded tarnished plant bug. Judith pulled the Rodale Organic Gardening Encyclopedia for suggestions.
The only listing was for an organically approved treatment was sabadilla. Not only did it kill the tarnished plant bug, IT KILLED HONEYBEES!! We decided not to use it. And we stopped using any "rescue chemistry."

Instead Ken continued to focus on growing, not killing. When there is a problem, Ken looks to how he can improve the soil to grow healthier plants that can resist disease and insect problems. In addition to continuing to build soil, he began encouraging beneficial insects with insectiaries. He found a biodynamic group and began making and using biodynamic preparations. He did extensive soil testing and started adding soil amendments like trace minerals. As Ken says, If it isn't in the soil, how can it be in the food? The results have been dramatic - the plants are so much more vibrant.

People can taste the difference. And the deer can, too.