In the spring of 2006 we found property that was a prime development opportunity and was being looked at for such purposes. We were able to purchase this site, which was 7.5 acres with three houses, not in order to turn it into a subdivision, but rather a small urban farm that could service downtown Asheville and become a wholesome environment for our families.

With America's current fragile economy, we think that it is wise to invest in local agriculture. Cheap energy, something that most of us have taken for granted, is coming to an end. This affects everything from the price of a plane ticket to a loaf of bread. The sun of affordability is setting on the days of the 3,000-mile salad. Local farms must experience a renaissance if our local economies are to remain sustainable and our food is to remain affordable to a majority of people.

During the 2008 growing season at Gladheart Farms we began the large task bringing our vision into reality. We cleared two acres of land from trees, underbrush, and invasive species, old fences and large rocks. We purchased and erected a 24x48 greenhouse and equipped it with overhead irrigation, timers, liquid fertilizer injector, wood and forced air heat for propagation and winter production of greens. We also purchased and built three cold frames used for tomato production during the growing season to help prevent late blight and other diseases brought on by excessive moisture. We dug a well to use for agricultural irrigation, both for the greenhouse and drip irrigation in raised beds. We purchased basic necessary equipment to begin our farm production. Gladheart Farms also became USDA-certified organic, further underscoring our commitment to sustainable agricultural practices. The 2008 season saw success in wholesale and CSA (i.e., Community-Supported Agriculture) operations.

Now it is winter, 2011, and we are glad to be still prospering in the vision of producing a wholesome environment for our families and growing organic produce with biofuels for our tractors and heating systems.  Those of us at Gladheart Farms thank you for the continued support and hope to continue to provide for your produce needs in the future.