At Roots Farm, we’re not just growing food; we’re cultivating a healthier community and a healthier planet. Our mission is to feed our community with nutritious, organic produce while nurturing the soil that sustains us all. It’s about working with nature, not against it, and finding innovative ways to make farming more sustainable.
Roots Farm sprouted in 2014 when we moved to our current property. I needed a name quickly for my business license, and "Roots Farm" felt right. Born and raised in Kitsap County, my roots run deep here. So, we settled on a name that was simple and meaningful. Roots Farm is a diversified fruit and vegetable farm, but we specialize in storage crops like potatoes, winter squash, onions, garlic, carrots, turnips, and beets. We also focus on season extension, allowing us to overwinter crops and harvest in early spring, bridging the “hunger gap” when fresh produce is scarce. We are a regenerative, no-till farm and specialize in integrative practices.
The mission of regenerative farming is twofold: to feed the community and to heal the land. Most regenerative farms integrate many approaches to get as close to natural processes as possible. For instance, we at Roots Farm take a multidisciplinary approach to pest control. We use netting and barriers to exclude pests, install birdhouses and bat boxes to attract insect-eating wildlife and integrate livestock to graze on pests. It’s more labor-intensive but aligns with our commitment to sustainability. Regenerative agriculture is labor-intensive, especially at the start. Setting up fields and beds takes time, but the benefits—less need for fertilizers, fewer weeds, and better water retention—are worth it.
Our no-till approach means we do not seasonally till the ground we plant. Conventional farms till between each season to break up compaction, incorporate fertilizers, reduce weeds, and aerate the soil. The big problem with tilling is that it releases carbon into the atmosphere and ultimately destroys the soil's microbiome. These microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and other microbes, play a crucial role in nutrient cycling, breaking down organic matter, and improving soil fertility. By not tilling, the natural habitat of these microbes is maintained, fostering a diverse and healthy soil ecosystem. This is important because a robust soil microbiome enhances plant health, promotes robust root systems, and increases resilience to pests and diseases. We didn’t set out to be a no-till farm from the start; it just made sense as we grew. No-till practices reduce weeds, save water, and eliminate the need for gas-powered tilling. It's about working with nature, covering the soil with plants or mulch to prevent weeds, conserve moisture, and enhance soil fertility. Our no-till methods have allowed us to adapt to changing climates, conserve water more effectively, and grow more resilient crops.
We’re always experimenting, learning, and growing. We believe in the power of community and the importance of sustainable farming practices. Most of what I know about farming is self-taught through trial and error. I’ve devoured books, attended classes, and learned from older generations. I try new methods yearly and learn more about farming harmoniously with nature. If you’re considering a switch to no-till regenerative practices, find a mentor or an internship at a farm that aligns with your goals. Hands-on experience is invaluable. We offer workshops and internships at our farm, so please subscribe on our website if you are interested.
Access to healthy food is a human right. This belief drives everything we do at the farm. We’re committed to ensuring that everyone can access nutritious, organic food regardless of their circumstances. Starting in 2023, we began partnering with local food banks to distribute 90% of our produce to those in need. We’re expanding this effort and hope to establish a nonprofit arm focused on outreach and education, empowering people to grow their own food. Whether it’s through our food donations, educational programs, or simply by setting an example, we’re committed to making a difference—one crop at a time.
My biggest dream for Roots Farm’s future is simple: to give our food away to those who need it most and to teach as many people as possible how to grow their own food. I’m most proud of the connections we’ve made with our community via workshops and outreach programs. These values are at the heart of everything we do.
Thanks for taking the time to learn about Roots Farm.
Feel free to reach out with any questions or to share your own farming stories. Let’s keep the conversation going and continue to support sustainable agriculture together!
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