Transitioning to Organic
At Williamson Family Farm, we are proud to be certified as a Transitioning Organic Farm, a crucial step towards achieving full organic certification.
This transitional phase, which typically spans three years, involves converting our farming practices to meet the stringent standards set by organic certification bodies. During this period, we eliminate the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers, replacing them with natural and sustainable alternatives. We also focus on enhancing soil health through practices like crop rotation, composting, and cover cropping, which promote biodiversity and improve the resilience of our ecosystem.
Our Blueberries and Blackberries
At Williamson Family Farm, we take pride in our bountiful blueberry and blackberry crops. Our blueberries, now over 6 years old, belong to the rabbit eye species and encompass several different cultivars. With more than 700 blueberry plants, we offer a rich harvest each season. Recently, we've also planted a couple dozen blackberry bushes and plan to expand further.
Both our blueberries and blackberries are packed with health benefits. They are high in antioxidants, which help protect your body from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. These berries are also an excellent source of dietary fiber, supporting healthy digestion and helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Rich in vitamins C and K, as well as manganese, they contribute to a strong immune system, healthy bones, and overall well-being. Moreover, our commitment to natural farming practices means we don't spray any chemicals on our berries, ensuring they remain naturally sweet, flavorful, and as healthy as possible. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of our berries and experience the benefits of nature's bounty.
Apple Orchard
Our apple orchard, consisting of over 8,000 carefully selected trees, was planted between 2023 and 2024 with a long-term vision of producing Organic Hard Cider. The selection process for our orchard trees involved considering several critical factors, including our climate, hardiness zone, disease pressure, labor, and materials.
To ensure the trees thrive in our region, we started by selecting the appropriate tree varieties and rootstocks. Many people might not realize that apple trees often have a different rootstock than the variety that produces the fruit. The rootstock is the lower part of the tree onto which a different apple variety (the scion) is grafted. Rootstock types vary based on their disease resistance, and they play a crucial role in the overall health and survivability of the trees.
We chose G41 and G11 rootstocks due to their high disease resistance across multiple disease types. This helps provide additional protection that complements the resistance found in the apple varieties themselves. Our selected apple varieties, chosen for their suitability for cider production, disease resistance, and adaptability to our climate, include Liberty, Crimson Crisp, Pink Lady, Gala, Gold Rush, Ashmead's Kernel, Roxbury Russet, Arkansas Black, Freedom, and Porter’s Perfection.
Stay tuned for future educational workshops and classes where we will share more about our orchard and the fascinating process of apple cultivation!
Bee Program
At Williamson Family Farm, our honeybee program is a vital part of our commitment to regenerative practices and organic farming. With 3-4 hives currently, our bees play a crucial role in pollinating our flowers, apple trees, and various crops. This natural pollination process enhances the health and productivity of our farm, supporting our transition to organic practices.
Our dedicated team members carefully tend to the hives, ensuring the bees thrive in a safe and nurturing environment. As we grow, we plan to harvest honey and create added value products, sharing the sweet benefits of our hardworking bees with our community.
Through our honeybee program, we also aim to educate visitors about the importance of pollinators in maintaining biodiversity, supporting ecosystems, and sustaining agriculture. Join us in celebrating the essential role of honeybees and discover how these tiny insects make a big impact on our farm and the environment.
Have you found a honeybee swarm? Call us and we can carefully relocate them to our farm!
Meet The Farmer
Jordan
Head Farmer
Get Involved
with Williamson Family Farm
At Williamson Family Farm, we believe in the power of community and the impact of working together. We invite you to partner with us in creating a thriving, sustainable farm. There are several ways you can get involved. If you're interested in creating added value products, we have blueberries and apples available for partnerships.
Additionally, we welcome donations of mulch, compost, manure, and other organic materials that meet our standards for Transitioning Organic Certification. Your support helps us maintain a healthy, productive farm while promoting sustainable agriculture in our community. Join us in our mission to grow and nourish the land, and let's make a difference together.