Ellis Family Farms
Vendor
About
We are a 5th generation fruit and vegetable farm located in Southwest Michigan. René and Bruce Gelder are responsible for the family’s 56-acre farm, but the whole family focuses on selecting fruit varieties, planting, and harvesting on this fourth- and fifth-generation operation. René specializes in Integrated Pest Management systems and sustainable practices; Bruce and son Mathew keep the equipment running; son Marc does a lot of the planning with René; Mary (as in Mary’s Eggs) works with the hens and does odd jobs that, she says, “my brothers don’t want to do,” and Mathew’s wife, Christina does photography. Mary sees to the updates on Facebook, Twitter, and the website.
Production Practices
MAEAP verified
Location
Benton Harbor, MI
Manager
Rene' Gelder
I was born into the family farm, both my mom and dad came from farms. I was extremely fortunate to know my great grandparents who were farmers both in America and in Ukraine. I have a degree in botany and agriculture. Throughout the years that my parents had markets in Chicago I would help out on the farm. Our children were raised also on the farm and helped Grandma and Grandpa Ellis at markets. It was not until 15 years ago my husband and I decided to help my parents and now I farm full time. At that time I established a new type of orchard system which greatly reduced the spacing of the trees and utilized newer root stocks.
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