At The Produce Company, we love keeping you updated with who our growers are and keeping you updated with life on the farm.
We are proud to introduce you to Scarborough fare. The experts in hydroponics, managed by two amazing women Jeanette and Pam.
A quick overview of Scarborough fare…
In 1993 Jeanette purchased land out in Waiuku. Pam joined her in 2003 and a year later Scarborough Fare was established as a privately owned horticulture unit. With the help of their exceptional team, they now have nearly 3 hectares of lush, piquant garden, mostly in hydroponic growing systems, producing nearly 70 tonnes of premium grade fresh culinary herbs every year.
What do they specialise in?
They specialise in growing Basil, Mint, Lemongrass, Chives, Oregano, Italian Parsley, Thyme, Vietnamese Mint, Dill, Chervil, Bay Leaves, French Tarragon, Rosemary, and Sage. Like all fresh produce, herbs have a seasonality to them.
Although most will grow year-round, in the cooler months, with low light levels, growing times are drawn out. The heat lovers, or very day-length sensitive, will not perform at all during winter. Mother nature knows best though as the seasonal dishes that herbs make extra special are usually those that grow well in that season. For example, Basil grows very well in the warmer months and is perfect for making pesto, dips and salads. Whereas Sage, Thyme and Rosemary grow well in the wintertime. That is why using herbs in season is so special.
How does Scarborough Fare practice sustainability?
Scarborough Fare places huge importance on sustainable growing and are continually finding ways to innovate and improve their operations. The installation of a large solar system has done two key things for them. The first is allowing them to physically action their sustainable ethos in a way that customers can get behind. Knowing that the herbs you buy are not only grown by sunlight but the systems that support their growing are run on the same sunlight – this is real time sustainability! The second is energy savings. Hydroponic systems as large as Scarborough Fares demand a lot of pumping power to operate. Needless to say, they’re enjoying the savings and after the initial pay-off period, the savings can be re-invested in cutting edge growing technology. It’s a win-win.
We are so excited to be working with Jeanette and Pam who provide us with awesome produce that are grown with sustainability in mind.
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