Down to Earth Farm
Brian and Kristin started Down to Earth Farm in November of 2007. The decision to purchase 2.5 acres on the Westside came after years of feeling called to the sustainable food movement. We chose our hometown of Jacksonville to try this venture because years of poor development have left it nearly devoid of agriculture.
We are committed to growing our veggies sustainably – meaning that we use cover crops and composted animal manures for fertilizers, use no synthetic pesticides, and practice crop rotation to improve the soil and fight bugs and disease. All of our planting, weeding and bug squishing are done by hand. We are not certified organic but feel that it is better to allow folks to visit the farm and see for themselves how their food is grown as opposed to relying on labels and stickers. We have only been at this for a little over a year but we have had a tremendous time so far. Learning to grow veggies organically is an art form that can vary from climate to climate and backyard to backyard. We have found our little piece of earth to have wonderful energy and ability to give life to plants, but it also (unfortunately) has presented many challenges such as caterpillar invasions and flooding. There is constant opportunity for learning and we’ll share that process with all who are interested. It is an honor to grow food and help in a small way to feed our community. We are excited that awareness of organics and local food has grown so much in our city and we thank you for your interest!
Where & When:
Beaches Green Market at Jarboe Park, Neptune Beach (Sat. 2-5pm)
Riverside Arts Market (Sat. 10-4)