Wegman's Organic Research Growing

It might surprise readers to learn that Wegmans' is so deeply involved in organic growing but they have clearly made a serious committment

The Dirt on Wegmans' Organic Research Farm

Wegmans Learns By Doing, Down on the Farm

By George Anderson

Wegmans' Jim Heberle is excited. "We aimed for ripe tomatoes before Memorial Day, and we made it," he told Syracuse's Post-Standard newspaper.

The we Mr. Heberle referred to are all of the people working on Wegmans' Organic Research Farm in Canandaigua, N.Y. The why behind his excitement? -- "because one of our goals is to find ways to extend the growing season in the Northeast."

According to The Post-Standard report, Wegmans was able to move up the date for picking its tomatoes because of changes it made to the compost it uses and by placing a hoop house over the soil to protect plants from the cold. The discovery is a positive for the grocer, along with its consumers who will be able to enjoy the locally-grown produce earlier than usual. Other farmers who supply the chain will also benefit.

"We set aside time each year to meet with local growers, have them tour our farm, and exchange information about what we've all learned during the most recent growing season," said Jamie Robinson, a team leader along with Mr. Heberle at the farm. "It's a two-way street that helps everybody."

The Wegmans' farm grows 14 varieties of cherry and grape tomatoes, which are sold in the chain's stores in Pittsford and Canandaigua, NY as well as its Next Door Bar and Grill restaurant.

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