Today we’d like to introduce you to Annie Florendo.
Annie, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was born and raised on a farm in Dinuba, California. Both of my grandparents were farmers, one was a commercial farmer and the other farmed for my family. I learned the difference between organic and conventional farming here. As a teenager, I began working at Farmer’s Markets in San Francisco selling my family’s produce.
I attended college in Bakersfield and became a teacher. After teaching for several years, I felt my passion was not being fulfilled. My passion was in farming. I moved back home to Dinuba and began an internship with a nearby farmer. One year later, I purchased land to create my own organic farm, and Sweet Tree Farms was born.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely has not been a smooth road all along the way. With the recent climate change, a drought has come over all of Central Valley. The lack of rainfall has meant that we must implement a more efficient way to water each tree.
Also, growing organically means that each tree is more susceptible to disease. Each year, we must remove and replant trees that may be infected. This process is not only time consuming but also expensive.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Sweet Tree Farms – what should we know?
I am an organic fruit farmer. I sell organic fruit at Farmer’s Markets throughout Southern California and wholesale our fruit to businesses all over California. These businesses include subscription fruit and vegetable boxes, and even other farms. I specialize in fruit with high sugar content.
This means the fruit breaks down faster. It is sweeter than fruit you would find in a grocery store. I am most known for the Emerald Beaut Plum. This is a high producing plum that comes in late summer.
I am most proud to be a female farmer in a male-dominated industry. Our sweetness in our fruit is a step above the rest. Our customers are always telling us they have never had fruit this sweet!
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I am very hard working and disciplined. I have always been this way, even since a young age. While others are sleeping, I am driving large trucks long distances to get to the Farmer’s Market and set up before 8 AM. We travel on average 1200 miles per weekend to attend the Farmer’s Markets in Southern California.
Pricing:
- All fruit is $3.75 Per Pound.
Contact Info:
- Address: 9229 Avenue 392 Dinuba, CA 93618
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @Sweettreefarms
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SweetTreeFarms/?ref=bookmarks
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