At Picadilly Farm, we grow 15 acres of certified organic vegetable crops for the wholesale market each season. We focus on crops that are well-suited to our sandy loam soils, including sweet potatoes, carrots, cantaloupes, kale and peppers.
We steward our farm with attention to a high quality harvest each season, and with a focus on the long term sustainable use of this land. We focus the farming on ecological balance, wherein biological, physical, and chemical forces all contribute to a healthy soil system. To sustain the abundant share harvests we reap, Picadilly soils are “fed” with a variety of nutrients, from composts and animal manures, to organic fertilizers and bio-stimulants, to cover crop and cash crop residues that are turned back in. We use no genetically-modified seeds, or pesticides that would leave toxic residues on our food.
Through these growing practices we realize a two-fold goal: best quality products for our buyers and commendable farm stewardship for the long term. Of course, implementing these labor-intensive growing practices are people, a crew of hard working people. Over 60% of our annual farm income goes toward labor costs, including our own family’s entire income. We prioritize excellent working conditions, and fair wages and benefits, for our farm crew.
We actively work with various support agencies, to expand our learning and improve our growing – including the Natural Resources Conservation Service of USDA, the university Extensions from NH, VT and MA; the Northeast Organic Farming Association; and the New England Vegetable Growers Association. Our current areas of study include practices to enhance the nutrient density of our harvest, and expanded hoophouse growing techniques. We can be found attending, and presenting at, various agricultural workshops and seminars throughout the year.
Picadilly Farm produce is Certified Organic with USDA. The farm is additiionally certified with the Real Organic Project. We distribute our produce regionally through our local Coop markets in Keene, Brattleboro and Greenfield. We sell through Food Connects in Windham and Cheshire Counties, and to various local and regional farms, including Manning Hill Farm (Winchester), Upinngil Farm (Gill MA), Green Wagon Farm (Keene), Archway Farm (Keene), and Sunrise Farm (in White River Junction VT, run by Bruce’s brother, Chuck). We operated a Community Supported Agriculture program from 2006 through the 2022 season, but we no longer offer CSA shares.
We welcome your questions and feedback about our growing practices here at Picadilly Farm.