#farmerfridays: Plunkett Farms
The wintry scene outside of our window, although beautiful, sure makes us pine for sunshine, warmer temps, and armfuls of fresh and summery produce. Although we can't hurry spring, we can get you ready for it! Have you signed up for a CSA yet?! If you haven't, Carla and John Plunkett of Plunkett Farms have got you covered! Scroll down to hear about their new farmstand and CSA offerings.
SVHC: How long have you been producing or growing in Cortland County?
PF: We have been growing in Cortland, on our land in Virgil, for 10 years.This is very much a "Mom and Pop"--or as I like to think of it as a Grandma and Grandpop--operation.
SVHC: Growing produce cannot be an easy task to take on, why engage this type of lifestyle?
PF: We chose to farm as a retirement plan, moving to Virgil form the city of Cortland five years ago. We both want to remain active, and fresh, wholesome foods have always been important to us. We have always enjoyed having a large garden, and it just seemed like a good idea to expand upon that.
SVHC: What type of produce do you grow?
PF: Veggies of all kinds! We would like to convey, that although we are not a certified organic farm, we believe in limiting our pesticide use and hardly ever spray. If we need to treat something we grow, we always reach for a natural solution first. If that does not provide the answer we need, we always relay to our customers what items have been treated.
SVHC: What has been your biggest joy as a local grower/producer?
PF: John and I enjoy sharing our love for fresh, locally grown food with others. The Main Street Farmers' Market (where you can find us on Tuesdays and Saturdays) has allowed us to do just that.
SVHC: What has been your greatest challenge as a local grower/producer?
PF: The biggest challenge is that we are just two people -- there is a LOT of work to get done to grow the number of fruits and vegetables we do!
SVHC: If you could tell your community one thing, what would it be?
PF: To get out there and enjoy fresh, local foods. They are good for you AND the community!
SVHC: How can the community purchase your goods or connect with you?
PF: You can always find us at the Main Street Farmers' Market on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 8a-2p from May to October. We also have exciting additions for our upcoming growing year with the first being that we are starting a CSA in June. It will be a small shares CSA, costing $250 for 20 weeks. (This ends up being about $12.50 per week.) There will be more than enough produce for a small family per share, but if you are really into canning and freezing, you can always just get two shares! Also happening in June is that we will be opening up a farmstand right on our property. If you would like to secure a CSA through us, or if you have any questions about our farmstand you can just contact us by phone (607) 753-0001. (We don't receive any internet at the house, so don't be shy about calling--we are always happy to talk to our community members!)
PS. If you want to visit our farmstand in June, you can find us at 2180 Tower Road in Virgil. We are located right next to Hall's Hill Blueberries!