Blueberry Bottom Farm to host Practical Farmers of Iowa field day July 11

AMES — Farmers, landowners and friends of farmers are invited to participate in Practical Farmers’ 2024 field day season, which includes 59 farmer-led events across Iowa and surrounding states from June through November. All events are led by PFI farmer members, who believe in sharing their knowledge, discoveries, mistakes and successes so others can learn and grow their own operations.

“What makes PFI field days special is the open, honest conversation,” says Liz Kolbe, PFI’s farmer-led education director. “Hosts are transparent and share what’s working and what’s not. Attendees also get to see practices in action, which sparks new ideas to bring back to their own farms.”

Organic U-Pick Blueberries and Day-Neutral Strawberries at Blueberry Bottom Farm

This field day session will be hosted by Kim Anderson of Blueberry Bottom Farm on Thursday, July 11.

The field day will be held at 3316 Hwy. 78, Brighton from 10 a.m. to noon with a light lunch to follow.

Kim Andersen’s operation at Blueberry Bottom Farm has seen incredible growth in recent years since planting 5 acres of organic blueberries in 2017. The demand for her fruit and the enthusiasm of her customers has increased steadily, giving Kim the opportunity to learn many production and marketing lessons. From managing crop pests (including furry critters!), to irrigation and variety selection, to issues like what to do when demand exceeds supply and how to communicate clearly about U-pick hours and practices, these lessons have helped Kim successfully grow her business. For the coming season, Kim is branching out from blueberries with day-neutral strawberries and is excited to share what she’s learned about this new venture.

The discussion will focus on establishing and maintaining organic blueberries; pest control methods for blueberries, including OMRI-labeled products and exclusion fencing; and running a successful U-pick operation.

To RSVP call (515) 232-5661.

For drivers coming from the west: Due to construction on state Route 78 west of Brighton, you will need to take an alternate route to reach the farm. Instead of Route 78, take state Route 92 to Washington, then take state Route 1 south to Brighton. Turn east onto Route 78 and continue to Blueberry Bottom Farm.