When Kristin and Will Nickels decided to start a farm from scratch on 65 acres in Will’s hometown, they knew there wasn’t going to be anything conventional about it. The couple took its social and environmental responsibilities very seriously, making Southern Flora Farms a four-season, biodiverse market garden that grows seasonal fruits and vegetables and cut flowers following regenerative methods.
They pay special attention to soil health, watersheds, and airways; no chemicals are ever used in their growing operations. The crops thrive thanks to grazing livestock and abundant organic matter, including compost, mulch, and worm castings. Dozens of varieties of flowers, fruits, and vegetables grow with the seasons and are handpicked within 24 hours of being sold at the local farmer’s market or through harvest boxes, ensuring customers receive the freshest products possible.
In the off-season, stunning fresh and dried wreaths made with foraged materials from the farm are available for purchase through Etsy. There’s no doubt Kristen and Will are busy farmers, and their commitment to the environment and their community is to be commended. Regenerative agriculture means they can leave the land better than they found it, nourishing people today and future generations as well.