Rock Bottom Farm: All in the Family
Farming takes on special meaning for Tim and Lori Wellmon, who own and operate Rock Bottom Farm near Patterson Springs in southern Cleveland County. First, it’s a family tradition. Lori’s father, William Harold Carpenter who passed away in 2001, began growing tomatoes in the 1970’s after he retired as a brick mason. Lori fondly remembers being involved in her dad’s tomato operation as a young girl. She was responsible for picking, and spent many summer days selling their crop at the old farmers’ market which operated for several years at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds. Lori says she swore never to marry a farmer, and she didn’t. But it didn’t take long after they married for husband Tim to develop an active interest in growing and selling produce.
Soon after their three sons were born, the family farming operation took on new importance. It connected the boys with their grandfather in a meaningful way and instilled in them a strong work ethic. As soon as they could walk, sons Clint, Ethan and Cole were tagging along with grandpa to the tomato fields. By age 10, the boys had convinced their grandfather they could work harder and longer than most grown folk he knew. Farming did take work and lots of it. Mr. Carpenter tended more than 3,000 tomato plants at the peak of his operation.
The family enterprise has changed somewhat in recent years, but Lori is certain that her dad would be pleased. Now, the Wellmons set only 1,200 tomato plants each season, but have expanded their vegetable production to include spring lettuce, sweet corn and cantaloupes. These tasty favorites are sold primarily at Foothills Farmers’ Market and a small roadside stand, and occasionally to customers who stop by the farm. The recent construction of two small greenhouses has allowed the family to raise their own vegetable transplants from seed for early-season planting, and to explore a broader range of specialty crops including heirloom tomato varieties, fresh herbs and field-grown cut flowers. During the past two years, Rock Bottom Farm has achieved success with beautiful zinnias, sunflowers, and gomphrena (globe amaranth or bachelor’s buttons). The blooms are harvested immediately prior to sale and last for days. In addition to offering her flowers at Foothills Farmers’ Market, Lori sells to local florists and to friends and neighbors who visit farm. She is seeing a growing demand for her flowers for weddings and other special occasions. The Wellmons are currently contemplating the production of vegetable sprouts and micro greens, some of the nation’s latest salad trends.
Each member of the family seems to gain take something special from their involvement in the family farming operation, as well as to contribute something unique. Tim, who is employed by the NC Department of Transportation, most enjoys selling and engaging with customers, while Lori loves all aspects of growing, long-term planning, and the freedom to be a stay-at-home mom. Eldest son Clint performs most of the equipment maintenance and tractor work, while middle son Ethan is recognized as the drip irrigation specialist. Cole, the youngest, takes an active role in the vegetable harvesting and cut flower operation.
When asked about where they see their farming operation 10 years from now, each family member offers a slightly different perspective… but they all see themselves somehow involved in a thriving business. To the Wellmons, Rock Bottom Farm is more than a way to supplement family income… it’s a way to grow a rock-solid family.
