History

Bardenhagen Berries, located in Leelanau County, prides itself on its history of sustainable farming. Recognized for their delicious strawberries and sweet cherries, the farm expanded in 2015 to include three acres of vegetables and flowers, cultivated without synthetic chemicals.

Practices

The farm uses organic practices to grow their produce and flowers, though they are not currently certified organic. They avoid synthetic chemicals and fertilizers, instead using natural solutions like compost. Additionally, the farm engages in minimal soil tillage and extends the growing season with hoop houses.

Offerings

Bardenhagen Berries offers a range of CSA shares. The Homestead Hill CSA provides seasonal vegetables, while add-ons like the Fruit Share and Flower Share expand options with strawberries, sweet cherries, and a variety of blooms. Seasonal flowers are harvested early for optimal freshness and conditioned in cool storage to last one to two weeks.

CSA Membership

The CSA program allows members to receive tailored weekly shares ranging from 4-10 items, based on share size and what’s in season. Throughout the season, members receive weekly newsletters detailing share contents and farm updates. Customers can also swap items depending on their share size.

Buying Experience

Items are available at various convenient pick-up locations, including at the farm and local markets such as Glen Arbor Market and Traverse City Market. During busy harvest times, strawberries can be pre-purchased online, with inventory updated daily.

Community Engagement

Bardenhagen Berries fosters strong community ties through engaging CSA programs. Members enjoy not just produce, but also newsletters, farm updates, and the opportunity to personalize their shares with item swaps as needed.