When you walk into Ronnie Roper, Bob Hoyle, and Jeff Crotts’ fields, you will find it challenging to focus your attention on just one fruit or vegetable. Depending on the season, your eyes will jump from row to row of squash, tomatoes, corn, collards, okra, onions, cucumbers and beans, just to name a few. In their orchards you will find apples, pears, peaches, nectarines, strawberries, blackberries, scuppernongs, and blueberries. Each man farmed independently prior to forming a partnership in 2011. Together, they now farm several acres of diversified fruits and vegetables at three locations in Shelby, Belwood, and Fallston.
Even with such a wide array of produce, they are always looking for new opportunities. This year they are adding strawberries and Hyacinth pond plants to their lineup. They will also continue to explore the use of organic pesticides. One of their most innovative ideas sits on the edge of Moss Lake where a water pump feeds their extensive irrigation system. It is this experimental mentality, plus a lot of hard work, that is the secret to their successful partnership.
In addition to managing their fields, these men also devote time to canning food for the winter. When asked how they have time for it all, Ronnie looks off into his mind’s eye to the busy summertime fields he knows will come. A big grin spreads across his face. “It’s going to get crazy,” he says. Inspired by a real passion for working the land, Ronnie, Bob, and Jeff sell their produce at several locations throughout the county (including Knob Creek Orchards & Creamery in Toluca) and would like to thank all the loyal customers who have supported them over the years.
