A produce farm in America (Irvine, California, USA)

Many produce farms in America are not only places which grow vegetables and fruits, but also tourist attractions for visitors on the weekend. We have a chance to visit Tanaka Farms, a famous produce farm in Irvine, California. In addition to diverse types of products and its market stand, the farm provides a learning experience for visitors who want to become “farmers” for a day.

Location:
Tanaka Farms
5380 3/4 University Dr, Irvine, CA 92612

Hours of operation:
Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM

Website:
http://www.tanakafarms.com/

Tanaka Farms was established in 1940 by a Japanese American family. Depending on the season, this 30-acres farm hosts different fruit-picking tours for visitors such as Strawberry Tours in Spring, Melon Tours and Corn Picking Tours in Summer, Pumpkin Patch Tour in early Winter.

Visitors will be driven around the farm, from its vegetable-growing areas to the strawberry farm.

The farm applies newest technologies for sowing and farming. For example, covers are used to retain moisture in seeds and soil.

A variety of vegetables, such as chard, broccoli, kale, carrot, are grown together in the same area. Each type of vegetable is grown in one or two rows.

Vegetables and fruits at the farm are all certified as organic products. They are not sold in retails, and are only sold at farms or at local farmer’s market.

Spinach is grown in covered soil.

Modern systems of drip irrigation are used to supply adequate water for plants while saving resources.

A green house is utilized to store seeds.

In Spring season, strawberry picking is a popular tour. Visitors will have a chance to become real “farmers” and pick fresh strawberry right at the fields.

Delicious strawberry is grown in straight rows. Strawberry is sensitive to water; thus, drip irrigation systems are used to avoid overwater. Red strawberry fruits can be picked and eaten at the fields. For fruits with green color, it might take up to six weeks for them to ripe.