San Diego Farm & Nursery Expo

Cultivating Answers for Southern California Agriculture

When it comes to farmers, nurserymen, and industry professionals we always enjoy sharing and exchanging information about protea farming in California. And what could be a better opportunity then rallying with the California Protea Association and our friends at the San Diego County Farm Bureau for the 4th annual Farm and Nursery Expo held at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. This educational event brought farmers and vendors together to network and meet with top researchers and authorities who provided attendees with lots of valuable resources. In addition, seminars were held on a variety of topics such as water runoff regulations, labor issues, squirrel & gopher management and more.

How to: DIY Fall Wreaths

Aren’t fall wreaths the best? We sure think so, which is why we recently hosted the 2nd annual wreath making workshop for California Women for Agriculture – San Diego Chapter (CWA). This event helps CWA raise funds for the organization and lets members create something special for their home. With a mixture of proteas in an array of colors and shapes to leucadendron and colorful fall foliage and fruit, wreaths were made by the dozens and good times were had by all.

For the scoop on farm events, visit http://resendizbrothers.com/events/.

Farm Tour Day: Satisfying the Craving for Local

Did you know agriculture is the fourth largest industry in San Diego County? It is a two billion dollar industry - San Diego County has more farms than any other county in the United States. Most of our local farms are small ‘boutique farms’ growing ornamental shrubs and trees, house plants and of course, flowers.

More and more people who have never been on a farm have a growing interest in where their food and flowers comes from. In 2011 a National Grocers Association survey revealed that shoppers choose a grocery store based partly on whether it stocks produce from regional farmers. Top chefs in the United States say local foods are a top restaurant trend and a whopping 7000 American cities and towns have local farmers’ markets.

So, this year when the San Diego Farm Bureau asked us to open our gate and give tours during their 7th annual Farm Tour Day on September 17th, we rolled out the green carpet to over 400 adults, children and a few pets craving for local. Visitors toured the packing house, cooler, greenhouse and nursery. They even stopped by the office to enjoy a picnic lunch, pose with flowers on their heads and grab flowers and plant to enjoy at home.

It was a fun and educational day for our friends of farming. They left the tour inspired and learned that family farms are an American tradition. Every time they make a local purchase, they help support a family business.

The San Diego County Fair: Ask a Farmer

The sun is shining, temperatures are rising, and the kids are on break - all sure signs that it's summertime! It’s not really a San Diego summer without a trip to the San Diego County Fair. Expect the usual: carnival rides, car shows, concerts and, of course, all things deep-fried. This year, though, there’s something different: The California Grown Exhibit!

This new attraction is all about agriculture, one of California's most important industries and the historical basis of county fairs. Agricultural education is a key part of the San Diego County Fair's mission, and this exhibit shows visitors the past, present and future of California farming in a fun and interactive way.

A little more than a century ago, the majority of the American population worked as farmers, necessary at that time to feed everyone. This exhibit teaches fairgoers about that past, and the modern-day farmer, who has made it possible for 98 percent of the population to seek careers in other fields.

In addition to educational exhibits, colorful banners and fabulous photos (like the one above), farmers are on hand to answer questions about farming, the San Diego County Farm Bureau and their Friends of Farming activities.

Yes, even our favorite farmer decided to volunteer and share his passion for farming. And, when asked what he grows? He proudly handed over a protea bouquet!

What Fun! To travel through California and San Diego's agricultural roots, an adventure through yesterday, today and into tomorrow. For more information go to: www.sdfair.com/attractions.