Often we get asked how the NATURALLY GROWN labels at our stand differ from Certified Organic. I use only fertilizers from natural sources and compost. I never spray for pests and use row covers to protect my crops. My homegrown products are grown to even higher standards than the USDA Organic. My produce is grown without ANY pesticides and is truly sustainable, but unless we choose to adhere to the standards, we cannot say our products are ORGANIC. They are simply better!
In my opinion, some of the USDA Organic standards are too lax or misguided. For example-USDA Organic requires compost and manure products to be heated to a point that kills all the pathogens and the beneficial microbes that make growing sustainable.
Also, it is a common misconception that Organic means no pesticides are applied to your food. USDA does allow Organic pesticides, which are better for the environment than conventional ones, but I prefer to use none at all. I strive to maintain a balance instead of a completely weed free, bug free or microbe free environment. I personally believe that organic farming is about maintaining that balance and feel that conventional and organic farming methods do not value that ideal.
That said, USDA Organic is a big step towards a sustainable world, and I hope that someday farming will be more about balance and nurture than about laws and regulations that must be adhered to.
Our Organic Produce is certified and labeled at our stand so that you can make your own educated choices about what you wish to support! Click on the link to see our broker's certification for the tons of USDA Organic products that we sell!
And remember you can vote with your dollars every day!
USDA Organic may be watered down, but it is still a great message to send to our farms that this is what you wish to support.
Pinnacle Farms is a local, naturally grown farm comprised of three locations. In central Phoenix, where the citrus orchard is, we offer Arizona Sweets, Ana Apples and other citrus and stone fruits during the spring and summer season.
The main farm is in Waddell in the west valley at Citrus Lane and Glendale Rd with additional locations in Waddell.
