-Growing Practices-
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We keep it simple.
At Stone Coop Farm we have chosen not to use pesticides or sprays of any kind, even those that are approved for certified organic farms. We believe that it is OK to share some of our produce with the bugs, mice, voles and birds. We also know that if we can keep our plants healthy and happy, they are less likely to get pests and diseases. 
-Organic Certification-We are certified through OEFFA –Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association. They visit the farm annually to inspect the farm and our records. We have to be able to trace all of our crops from seed to sale. It can be a time consuming task, but all that recordkeeping helps us be better farmers. We review this information annually to determine which crops and varieties have the best yields, least amount of pest and disease issues, and which sell the best. It helps us plan for the next season. If you would like to see our current certification, please click here.
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This is how we do it.
FERTILIZER Compost Animals Cover crops WEED MANAGEMENT Hands, tools, tractor, and lots and lots of hard work Cover crops PEST MANAGEMENT Search and Destroy Perennials - A safe home for good bugs Crop rotation Cover crops Fencing & barriers Dogs DISEASE MANAGEMENT Plant Spacing Observation and removal Multiple plantings Crop rotations Drip irrigation and water management |
FOOD WASTE AT FARMS & IN OUR HOMES
Did you know that around the world we waste over 30% of our food (from the store to our table)? Waste at the farm level is often even higher than that! Sometimes as much as 75% is wasted because many stores, restaurants and consumers expect “perfect” crops in size, shape, and appearance. Perfection does not always equal taste or nutritional value.
Expect to see various shapes, sizes, a few holes, and maybe a caterpillar in our some of our crops. Regardless of appearance, the taste will blow you away! Help us minimize how much food we all waste, by looking for ways to reduce how much food you throw away.