I grew up on a dairy farm in the Yakima Valley of Washington State — a place where apples, cherries, and agriculture shape everyday life. My wife, Stacy, grew up across the country in the Garden State of New Jersey, but only became a Certified Master Gardener in NC. How a dairy farmer met a Jersey girl is a story for another day, but together we’ve always shared a love for growing things.
For decades, I searched for a way to stay connected to agriculture. I tried pigs, chickens, tomatoes — you name it — on our suburban property. Yes, pigs! They even got out and were big news on "Next Door". Then in February 2025, I bought a clamshell of blueberries at the store. They were expensive… and terrible. That sent me down a rabbit hole of research, and I discovered that North Carolina is one of the top blueberry‑producing states in the country. Even better — blueberries thrive here.
Fast‑forward 18 months, and we’re officially in the blueberry business. We’re growing plants, helping homeowners and growers succeed, and building something we’re proud of. We also purchased land in Oakboro, NC, where we’re developing a blueberry u‑pick farm scheduled to open in 2028.
From dairy roots to Jersey gardening expertise to a new chapter in North Carolina blueberries — this is our family’s next adventure, and we’re glad you’re here for it.
Russ - the Berry-Court-Jester (not quite the Berry King yet).