How my hobby became a business.
In the 70's I planted my first pear tree in
my backyard. It was a variety named Kieffer. The tree was productive
but the fruit wasn't that good. I knew I could do better.
I then joined an amateur backyard fruit growing club, Midwest
Fruit Explorers.
There I learned about the many varieties of Asian pears, and I started experimenting.
To conserve space, I'd graft 20 or more varieties onto a single tree.
Soon my Skokie backyard was overflowing with Asian pear trees, and other fruiting
plants.
In 1996, I purchase 40-acre piece of property outside Freeport, Illinois.
I have planted over 20 varieties of Asian pears on this property. I currently
grow 7 varieties.
I also grow black currants, pawpaws, mulberries,
cornelian cherries and black walnuts.
In 2012, I build a high tunnel green house for tender tree crops and Chinese culinary/medicinal plants.
Fruit growing is a wonderful hobby, and I enjoy spreading the word about
Asian pears. They have a wonderful taste, and are so easy to grow.
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Have a question, or want to place an order?
I welcome all inquiries. Please feel free to contact me if you
have any questions.
To place an order,
contact me by
phone or email. Calling me is best.
I'll confirm availability and we can figure out a pick
up time and location. I do not ship. My plants are available by pickup only.
This can be done at mySkokie home (a suburb just north of Chicago); or by special
arrangement at the Farmer’s Market events I attend, or my orchard. All produce and trees are organically grown.
Orchard Location
My orchard is located north of Freeport, near the Wisconsin
border in Winslow, Illinois. If you'd like to be my intern,
please contact me to make special arrangements and receive
driving directions.
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