Cultivating Wellness, One Leaf at a Time

Welcome to Strata Farms, where innovation and sustainable agriculture thrives. Strata Farms is nestled Waimānalo, O'ahu. Our farm is dedicated to growing a variety of diversified vegetables and Māmaki tea.

At Strata Farms, we believe in the power of nature and the importance of sustainable farming practices. Our commitment to the environment is evident in every step we take, from the seeds we plant to the produce we harvest. We embrace techniques that enrich the soil, conserve water, and promote biodiversity, ensuring that our farm remains a vibrant and productive ecosystem for generations to come.

 

Respecting the Waimānalo Ahupua'a

We are fortunate to farm in the Waimānalo Ahupua'a, in the Moku of Ko'olaupoko. In the Ahupua'a system an emphasis lies on the harmony between the land, water, and people, and we are committed to practicing this respect to the land. We farm with natural agricultural practices and strive to cultivate our crops in a way that honors the rich Hawaiian culture in Waimānalo.

Organic Practices and Methods

At Strata Farms, we are dedicated to growing our crops using organic practices and methods. This commitment includes:

• Soil Health: We focus on building healthy, fertile soil through the use of compost, cover crops, and natural fertilizers. These practices help to enhance soil structure, increase organic matter, and promote beneficial microbial activity.
• Pest Management: We use integrated pest management (IPM) techniques to control pests naturally. This includes encouraging beneficial insects, using organic-approved pest control products, and implementing crop rotation to reduce pest pressure.
• Water Conservation: We employ efficient irrigation methods to conserve water and ensure our crops receive the precise amount they need. Drip irrigation and mulching help to minimize water usage and prevent soil erosion.
• Non-GMO: All our crops are grown from non-GMO seeds, ensuring that our produce is natural and free from genetic modification.

Diversified Vegetables: A Cornucopia of Freshness

Our farm has a diverse array of vegetables that cater to the culinary needs of our community. Here are some of the vegetables we proudly grow:

• Lettuce: Crisp, refreshing lettuces, including romaine, butterhead, and leaf varieties, perfect for salads and sandwiches.
• Carrots: Sweet, earthy carrots that are a favorite among our customers.
• Onions: Flavorful onions, including red, yellow, and green varieties.
• Herbs: A variety of aromatic herbs such as basil, cilantro, parsley, and mint.
• Radishes: Crunchy, peppery radishes that add a zesty bite to salads and snacks.
• Beets: Vibrant, nutrient-packed beets, ideal for roasting, juicing, or adding to salads.

Our commitment to quality means that every vegetable is grown with care, harvested at the peak of freshness, and delivered to you with its full flavor and nutritional value intact.

The Māmaki Journey: From Seed to Harvest

While we currently source our Māmaki leaves from the Big Island, we are eagerly anticipating our first Māmaki harvest in November 2024. Our journey with Māmaki began with growing all of our seedlings from seeds, nurturing them with the same care and dedication that we apply to all our crops.

Our goal is not only to provide high-quality Māmaki leaves for tea but also to contribute to the conservation and propagation of this valuable plant. We are committed to producing Māmaki seedlings that we can donate throughout Waimānalo and the rest of O'ahu.

At Strata Farms, we understand that farming is not just about growing food; it's about fostering a sense of community and connection to the land. We actively engage with our local community which allows us to share what we learn, learn from others, and build strong, supportive relationships.

Looking ahead, we have ambitious plans to expand our offerings and deepen our impact. In addition to our upcoming Māmaki harvest, we are exploring new crop varieties and sustainable farming techniques. We aim to enhance our soil health, increase our biodiversity, and reduce our carbon footprint even further. 

I am committed to creating a farm that reflects our values of sustainability, quality, and community. Every day, I am inspired by the beauty of Waimānalo and the resilience of our local food system. I am excited about our future, especially our journey with Māmaki, and I look forward to sharing the fruits of our labor with you. Thank you for supporting Strata Farms and being part of our story. - Ian Kennedy