Asparagus is one of the most nutritionally well-balanced vegetables in existence. It leads nearly all produce items in the wide array of nutrients it supplies in significant amounts for a healthy diet.

Asparagus is the leading supplier among vegetables of folic acid. A 5.3 ounce serving provides 60% of the recommended daily allowance for folacin which is necessary for blood cell formation, growth, and prevention of liver disease. Folacin has been shown to play a significant role in the prevention of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, that cause paralysis and death in 2,500 babies each year. Its wealth of nutrients, fiber and very low sodium and calorie content make asparagus a nutritionally wise choice for today’s health-conscious consumer.

In addition to all of the field work we also finished construction in the new pole barn of a USDA GAP principles designed Asparagus processing plant. Diana and I both became certified in USDA GAP. The new room is designed like new dairies or other food processing centers with total cleanliness as a top priority.

Everything from the PVC wall and ceiling panels, waterproof lighting and electric, stainless steel triple sinks and equipment was done with attention to detail and a clean space. Our plant is equipped with a walk in cooler and a hydro-cooler designed to drop the temperature of harvested asparagus down as quick as possible to obtain the freshest product.

We will begin selling asparagus this year in May. It will be available fresh in quantities in one pound increments while supplies last for approximately six weeks. If you are a wholesaler, food pantry, grocery store or restaurant owner with farm to table needs, or a CSA operator with product needs we have boxes of asparagus available in 11 or 30 lb quantities.  You can find our asparagus in restaurants such as The Sand Bar in Twin Lakes, Dukes in Crystal Lake, Johnathon’s on Brick in Delavan, small specialty grocers like Van Laars in Rockford or at many local farm stands like

Glass Greens in Harvard, Patyk’s Farm In Richmond, Rubber Ducky in Twin Lakes, and Broadview farm in Marengo.   Join our growing list- we would love to work with you.

You can call 630-779-6249 to discuss your needs or schedule a time to come out and check us out.

More than 90 percent of farms in the U.S. are classified as small and local, with a gross cash farm income of $250,000, or less. These farms, most of which are family-owned and operated, confront considerable challenges due to current trends, such as increased movement into cities, an aging population, farm consolidation, and changing weather patterns.

Importance of Family and Small Farms

Family and small farms are vital to our economy and well-being as a nation. Not only do they support the competitiveness and sustainability of rural and farm economies, they serve to:

• Protect and enhance natural resources and the environment
• Provide a nursery for the development of new enterprises and marketing systems
• Maintain rural populations