Jenny Kinney relies on mutual support, flexibility and community to help guide her family’s northern Illinois flower, fruit and vegetable farm.
Kinney, her husband, Aaron, and nine children all have contributed or continue to contribute in some way to the family business. Today, their Piscasaw Gardens Farm sells fresh cut flowers, fruits, vegetables and popped popcorn at a dozen farmers markets throughout Chicagoland and one in neighboring Wisconsin.
The local foods scene in northern Illinois is “highly supportive,” according to Jenny, who was raised on a dairy farm. “Our customers, they are family.”
Aaron, who also works as a computer programmer, helps provide the support when flexibility is required.
“I can allow our dates to be centered around things that she has to get done,” he says. “Even when it’s dark and we’re running around with flashlights on a phone checking for (sweet corn seed) tassels.”
Weather requires the Kinney family, who recently expanded their farm near the Illinois border with Wisconsin, to be flexible too.
“We got a real warm bump and the two-week forecast didn’t show any major frost events,” Jenny says. “Then, here we are, it was down to 26 last night and we packed as much as we could into the barn and into the shop.”
When threats of frost pass, the Kinney family looks forward to a vigorous growing season and supplying their loyal group of customers throughout northern Illinois. They welcome you on their farm.
“Come see us,” Jenny says. “We want to share what we know and what we are doing.”
As with other Illinois farms that welcome visitors, check the farm’s website and social media to find out what’s available and hours.
AUDIO: Hear more from Jenny and Aaron Kinney about their northern Illinois farm in an episode of the Partners podcast.
