Cultivating Success: How Mentors and Mentorship Shape Roebuck Farm

At Roebuck Farm, our journey from a new market garden to a thriving business has been deeply influenced by mentorship. A pivotal experience was Jodi’s time at Green City Acres in Kelowna, under the guidance of Curtis Stone, The Urban Farmer. This laid the groundwork for Roebuck Farm’s growth, providing invaluable insights into workflow, crop selection, tool utilization, and entrepreneurial thinking.

Learning from Curtis Stone: The Urban Farmer

Time at Green City Acres exposed Jodi to efficient market gardening. Curtis Stone’s emphasis on intensive, high-yield farming methods using minimal space and resources was revolutionary. This experience shaped Roebuck Farm’s approach, inspiring the expansion of our outdoor growing areas and the construction of a dedicated wash and pack facility. With tools like the Jang seeder, tilther, and quick cut greens harvester, we began experimenting with direct-seeded baby leaf salads, transplanted Salanova lettuce, and a variety of root vegetables including radishes, turnips, and carrots.

Growth and Expansion

We started by supplying a local buyers club and two farmers markets. By the next season, we secured contracts with our first retail store and restaurant, marking a significant milestone. Concurrently, our microgreen production took off, complementing our field salad offerings and earning us gold medals at the Outstanding Food Producer Awards.

The Role of Mentorship in Our Evolution

Mentorship continued to play a crucial role beyond Jodi’s initial training. Curtis Stone’s prolific content and advocacy for small-scale farming viability resonated deeply within our community. His insights and experiences empowered us and countless other growers, demonstrating the potential for sustainable and profitable farming practices.

Paying It Forward: Mentoring Others

Inspired by our own journey, Roebuck Farm has embraced a role in mentoring aspiring farmers and gardeners. We understand firsthand the transformative impact of guidance and support. Through training and workshops we share our knowledge on crop management, marketing strategies, and the operational intricacies of running a successful market garden.

At Roebuck Farm, our growth from a single season’s experience to a recognized local supplier was shaped by mentors and our commitment to ongoing mentorship. The lessons learned—from efficient production techniques to effective market strategies—have enhanced our business and fostered a community of passionate growers dedicated to sustainable agriculture. As we continue to evolve, we remain grateful for the mentors who have shown a path and strive to inspire the next generation of agricultural innovators.

Mentorship to us isn’t just about learning; it’s about empowering others and nurturing a legacy of sustainable farming practices.