Explore ESVA Farms
Few things define the Shore like its agriculture. From family farms that have been operating for generations to brand new farmers just getting off the ground, agriculture is the strong but unassuming supporter of Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Take the opportunity during your travels to take a look behind the scenes at 5 of our farms around the Shore and learn about what it takes to be a farmer here!
- Grizzard Farms and Nurseries
- Baines Farm Market
- Shockley Farm
- Pickett’s Harbor Farm
- Chatham Flower Farm
- Shore Breeze Farms
Grizzard Farms and Nurseries
22643 Bayview Circle, Cape Charles 23310
Grizzard Farms and Nurseries is a Cape Charles farm, established in 2014 using organic and eco friendly techniques. It is run by Charlie and Michelle Grizzard. They specialize in growing Proven Winners Products, Native Plants, Pumpkins, Hayman Sweet Potatoes, and Chicken & Duck Eggs.
Charlie’s passion for agriculture and horticulture was passed down from his family who have farmed in Virginia for over 200 years. About ten years ago his parents moved to the Cheriton Virginia, where he helped them revive an abandoned house built in the 1800s. They decided to cultivate the land on the property to create what is now Grizzard Farms and Nurseries.
Baines Farm Market
7028 Bell Lane, Machipongo, Virginia 23405
Baines Farm Market offers fresh, in season produce as well as preserves. They have strawberry fields onsite and during the summer, offer the delicious berries in their store!
Shockley Farms
23184 Seaside Road Cape Charles, VA 23310
Great family operated farmer’s market with local produce and products. Spring brings flowers and plants. Fall brings a pumpkin patch, corn maze for kids.
Pickett’s Harbor Farm
3119 Picketts Harbor Drive Cape Charles, VA 23310
Seasonal produce available: beans, strawberries, tomatoes, squash, peaches, sweet potatoes, and more! Pick your own peaches when the peaches are in season! Wander the rows of peach trees to create your perfect box of fresh fruit to enjoy.
www.visitesva.com/places-to-shop/listings/picketts-harbor-farms/
Chatham Flower Farm
31094 Boggs Road Painter, VA 23420
Chatham Flower Farm grows Specialty Cut Flowers & Herbs on a historic farm property in Painter Va. The studio barn is home to the owners working art studio, as well as flower design space. Flower bouquet CSA program options are available. Chatham Flower Farm dates back to 1690. They are a certified naturally grown flower farm selling specialty cut flowers. The owner is also a working fine artist and has her studio in the renovated Cr. 1801 barn.
Shore Breeze Farms
3210 Townfield Dr, Cape Charles, VA 23310
Shore Breeze Farms began in 2019 with the vision to bring wholesome lettuce to the restaurant and wholesale industry. They specialize in soilless greenhouse production of leaf lettuces and herbs. This method is called hydroponics. Hydroponics allows them to grow all of our lettuce in a controlled environment. The process gives them the ability to control every aspect of the growing process. This also lets them to grow lettuce 365 days a year. Shore Breeze also offers u-pick strawberries in the late spring and a pumpkin patch in the fall!
How do you get involved?
Enjoy agriculture on the Shore by visiting one of our farms, attending the ESVA Chamber’s Ag Fair, or participating in agriculture education!
ESVA Agricultural Fair
Meet the farmers at the ESVA Agricultural Fair! Featuring farms and businesses from around the Shore, the ESVA Ag Fair is a fun filled day for the whole family. Try your luck at keg rolling, skillet throwing, or oyster shucking or enter one of the food or craft competitions!
Learn more: www.esvachamber.org/esva-events
Visiting a Farm
As you visit each location, be mindful of the fact that they are working farms. They love to share their location with you and they hope you will love the farm back!
Prepare to have the best day ever by wearing sturdy walking shoes, clothes that are easily cleaned, and an open mind for new experiences! Be aware of rows of plants and watch your step to help protect young plants in the ground. If there are animals onsite, please ask if you can pet them before you do and be careful when approaching any animal.
Agricultural Education
Want to learn more about farming on Virginia’s Eastern Shore? The Virginia Cooperative Extension is available to help!
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