Blooms Organic

Blooms Organic is a family business based in Crescent, Iowa, and run primarily by Rebecca Bloom, with support from her husband, Brent, and sons, Alex and Eli. Their farm produces primarily berry fruits, culinary herbs, and a large variety of vegetables, including tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, shallots, onions, Asian greens, and root crops. Blooms Organic also grows flowers and plants.

How long have you been farming?
We have been farming since 1999.

Who works with you on your farm?
My right-hand man is Lynn Danzer, who works with us when he’s not at his day job with UPS. Lynn is also a beekeeper, and we have about 14 colonies on the farm. Our son Eli helps out in the summer when school is not in session; he’s currently studying horticulture in college. We are also fortunate to have several of my friends work with us as volunteers.

What do you grow on your farm?
We grow herbs, vegetables, berries, annual flowers, and some perennials for their beauty and to attract beneficial insects. I sell potted plants from my greenhouse in the spring, then mainly produce items as the year progresses. We supply products to Whole Foods Market and Wild Oats.

How did you get into farming?
I have it in my genetic makeup—my dad was a doctor by profession but owned land, and my mom always gardened and tended big yards and orchards. I lived on my parents’ farm from age 12 until I was 17.

What do you enjoy the most about farming?
I really enjoy spending time outdoors in nature, as well as the freedom farming allows me to set my own schedule.

What do you enjoy most about farming?
Growing crops and the outside work are what draw us to farming. But the challenges are also exciting. In addition, we have recognized the need for locally produced fruits and vegetables and feel as though we are truly serving a purpose.

What makes your farm special?
The location is quite beautiful. We’re in the Loess Hills, a land formation found only here in Iowa and in China.

What do you envision for the future of your farm?
Time will tell, but more of the same with the possible addition of high tunnels to extend the season, planting more fruit trees, more-diverse crop selections, and just enjoying the changes and challenges that evolve.

Are you an organic grower?
Yes, we are certified organic.

Why is organic farming a priority for your business?
I have always farmed organically, but became certified to work with my vendors, Whole Foods Market.

Why should people buy organic products?
Because of the way organic farms treat the earth—soil health, water health, conservation-minded in all regards. In other words, organic products are grown with love and respect for the environment.

For more information about Blooms Organics call 402.455.1890 or email her.