Wise Acres Organic Farm

The way Wise Acres got its start may be a little unconventional, but the reason behind it is simple: our kids. Bailey, Morgan, and Mac inspired us to grow the healthiest, most delicious berries we possibly can. After leaving our hometown of Chicago and moving our family to beautiful North Carolina, we broke ground on the farm in March of 2013 and began working toward a dream we had been talking about for years. Before farming, we worked in finance and business. What we really wanted, though, was a place where our kids could enjoy the same opportunities we had growing up—while also having the space, fresh air, and outdoor life we all love. After a long search, we found the perfect piece of land in Indian Trail. When we first stepped onto the property, we quickly realized we had a lot of work ahead of us. So we rolled up our sleeves and got started. We have big plans for the future of the farm, and we’re grateful for the amazing customers who have helped Wise Acres grow along the way. Our family lives on the farm, and we eat the berries we grow. Because of that, we care deeply about how they’re produced. We grow our strawberries without the poisons commonly used in conventional strawberry farming. Many of the chemicals used in conventional production don’t just stay in the field—they can end up in the fruit, the soil, and the water we share with our neighbors. Strawberries regularly rank at the top of the Environmental Working Group’s “Dirty Dozen” list for pesticide contamination. That’s one more reason we’re committed to growing berries in a way that’s healthier for our family, our customers, and our community. Wise Acres is a USDA Certified Organic farm. Our farming practices include crop rotation, cover crops, detailed record keeping, and regular third-party inspections to ensure we meet all current organic standards. These practices help us care for our soil, protect the environment, and grow berries you can feel good about eating. We are committed to providing the healthiest berries possible. Most produce found in supermarkets is harvested 5–7 days before it reaches the shelves. During that time, natural sugars begin turning to starch, and fruits gradually lose flavor and nutrients. When you buy local, you’re getting produce that was picked fresh and is ready to eat right away. Many varieties grown for grocery stores are chosen because they ship well, not because they offer the best flavor. On average, food travels about 1,500 miles before reaching the supermarket. By buying local, you’re not only enjoying fresher produce—you’re also supporting lower energy use and reduced packaging. We do our very best to grow the sweetest and most flavorful berries possible. Once you leave the farm, a few simple steps will help keep them at their best. Refrigerate your berries as soon as you get home and avoid washing them until you’re ready to serve them. When you are ready to eat them, rinse gently under cool water with the green caps still attached. For the best flavor, allow the berries to come to room temperature before serving.