What Is Community Supported Agriculture?
How We Grow
The Share Options
How Our Share Pick-up Works
Seasonal Availability
Sign-up Online
What Is Community Supported Agriculture?
Community Supported Agriculture, or CSA, is a system of farming that brings farmers, community members, and agricultural land together into a mutually beneficial relationship. Community members purchase a “farm share” for the growing season, which entitles them to a weekly share of the harvest throughout the season, delivered by a farmer they know and trust. This commitment implies a willingness to share with the farmer the bounty of the land, as well as some of the risks and pleasures of production. Our CSA members receive a wide variety of fresh and nutritious produce grown organically on our farm and delivered three times per week to the Ithaca Farmers Market. CSA members have the joy of knowing where, when, and how their food is being produced and become connected with and participate in local agricultural cycles.
How We Grow
All of our produce is grown using organic methods certified by the Northeast Organic Farming Association. At Early Morning we believe that the key to growing delicious nutritious produce is a holistic approach to soil fertility. We focus on building healthy soils by using compost, cover crops, and carefully planned crop rotations. We never spray with harmful chemicals that compromise our health, nor do we fertilize with synthetic materials that pollute our ground water. We are always happy to take the time to thoroughly answer all of your questions.
The Share Options
Full Season Share:
The Full Season Share is designed for a family with two adults and children. There is an additional charge for extra adults living in your household.
Single Person Household Share
If you are a household of one then this is the option for you.
Working Shares
If you are interested in becoming more involved, we offer a sizable discount to a few hardworking members in exchange for substantial help in the gardens.
How Our Share Pick-up Works
We offer the highest quality produce picked fresh, washed, and delivered to the Ithaca Farmers Market twice per week. We attend Saturday and Tuesday markets with our full selection -- we also attend Sunday market but starting in 2009 we will be bringing less selection to Sunday market. As a share member you may come to any or all of the markets we attend. Click here for market hours and locations. Our pick up system is a free choice system share members “shop” at our market stands to satisfy the produce needs of their household for the week – take as much as you need. Members pick and choose from the available vegetables according to their individual tastes and needs. Most weeks we limit one or two items – either high value items such as a $15 watermelon, or items that require a high amount of harvest labor like green beans.
Seasonal Availability
Part of the fun of being involved with Community Supported Agriculture is planning meals in harmony with
what the season can provide. We find it rewarding to prepare meals that contain the freshest and healthiest vegetables grown in season. See our list of crops and approximate harvest dates.