July 14, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Jacobs’ Family Orchard
4676 North 75 West New Castle
Indiana 47362
https://jacobsfamilyorchard.com
The summer tour for Indiana fruit and vegetable growers will be held on Friday July 14 at Jacobs’ Family Orchard near New Castle, IN. While primarily apple growers, growing over 30 cultivars, The Jacobs family also grows various vegetable crops such as pumpkins, cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, cabbage, broccoli, sweetcorn and squash. All produce is sold in the market on the farm. Each year, about 1200 Mums are grown from plugs.
The Jacobs purchased the apple orchard in 2002 from Rex Anderson, a long-time apple grower. In fact, the orchard has been in production since WW 1. The Jacobs bought the farm to diversify their corn and bean operation. Many of the apple trees are big trees, some up to 40 years old. However they have been replanting and planted another 1000 trees this year on a trellis. They have a good crop this year and may try U-pick for the first time. Apples are either sold fresh at the market, made into cider or used in the bakery and turned into apple crisp.
Since Stephanie graduated and returned full time to the business in 2016, the marketing activities have expanded. There is a new kitchen in the market where homemade apple and peach crisp are made, along with other baked goods and donuts. Outside attractions for families and kids include a children’s playground and a haunted house and maze along with hay rides. Visitors to the farm can cut their own flowers in the sunflower patch. Communication to customers is through social media, primarily Facebook and Instagram.
All fruit growers, vegetable growers and others interested are welcome to attend. We will tour fruit and vegetable production areas as well as discuss the various marketing activities. The Field Tour is free and all are welcome to attend. The field tour starts at 9:00 am (Eastern) and will end around 3:00 pm. Lunch will be available onsite.
