Horticulturist - organic gardening (to live, restaurants, stores)

[plantlover]

I grew up in north-central Indiana, graduated in Ag at Purdue. I have been working in horticulture for 30+ years in south Florida. I miss the midwest and am considering my options. I would like to live a simple quiet life where the soil is rich - like the black velvet ones of Iowa. Is organic gardening popular in Iowa? Are there farmer's markets or possibilities of selling organic produce to local stores or restaurants? Any advice or links would be greatly appreciated! Thanks

[IowaTexasDC Guy]

I just read an article in the DM register that small farms are booming in Iowa and that more and more towns are hosting farmers markets. My dad is a "traditional" row-cropper and I don't know much about it, but I definitely hear about the growth of organic farming often in Iowa.

[plantlover]

Originally Posted by IowaTexasDC Guy

I just read an article in the DM register that small farms are booming in Iowa and that more and more towns are hosting farmers markets. My dad is a "traditional" row-cropper and I don't know much about it, but I definitely hear about the growth of organic farming often in Iowa.

Thanks for the info....I'll try to get a link to the DM Register.

[IowaTexasDC Guy]

Here are some links I found....just because I got curious. Looks pretty promising)

Iowa Organic Association

Iowa Farmers Adapt to Survive: Conventional farming is a thing of the past—go organic! DAN MIHALOPOULOS / Chicago Tribune 19jan04

Organic Farming Steadily Growing in Iowa & Mid-West

[IowaTexasDC Guy]

This is interesting too:

Bleeding Heartland:: Organic farmer plans to run for Iowa Secretary of Agriculture (updated)

http://onestraw.wordpress.com/2008/0...organic-mecca/

[plantlover]

Originally Posted by IowaTexasDC Guy

This is interesting too:

Bleeding Heartland:: Organic farmer plans to run for Iowa Secretary of Agriculture (updated)

Thanks, Iowa Guy. I am checking these out as you are posting them... I leave for work at 4:30 (I miss rush hour traffic by starting work early and leaving early). I am longing for a more simple life!