In 1994 the farm was purchased by the De jonge family and was intended for a U-pick strawberry operation. In 1996 a small greenhouse was built to grow peppers. In 2001 a larger greenhouse went into operation and tomatoes and cucumbers were added to the mix. In 2002 a barn was remodeled for the purpose of a storefront and café. In June of 2004, the café was officially opened. Today land atBroxburn Vegetablesis farmed for the production of various fruits and vegetable, including one of the largest commercial broccoli crops in Alberta.
Farm Fresh Produce
At Broxburn Vegetables we pride ourselves in growing superior quality field and greenhouse fruits and vegetables. We presently operate a 3-acre greenhouse that is heated by two natural gas boilers. In the greenhouse, we utilize an IPM (Integrated Pest Management)system. This is an environmentally sensitive ecosystem-based strategy that focuses on long term prevention of pests through a combination of techniques such as habitat manipulation, modified cultural practices and biological control like introducing natural predator insects (good bugs to eat bad bugs). The most common pests found in the greenhouse are aphids. The natural insect predators used to target these pests are introduced into the greenhouse on a weekly basis.
Broxburn tomatoes are carefully chosen so that our customers receive the maximum flavor. Harvesting vine ripened tomatoes daily ensures the plant benefits to their maximum potential. Long English cucumbers, mini cucumbers, eggplant, beans, and kale are also grown in the greenhouse. Greenhouse harvest begins in February with mini cucumbers and continues until December when we clean out the greenhouses to replant.
U-Pick Operation
Strawberry & raspberry u-pick is currently closed. Watch for u-pick dates later in the spring!!
Our primary U-pick crops are strawberries and raspberries. The raspberries and ever-bearing strawberries produce berries right up until the first frost. This often is later in September or sometimes in October. The cool prairie nights contribute to the sweetness of the berries. Our u-pick fields are located on our farm, five kilometers east of Lethbridge.
Strawberry & raspberry u-pick is closed for the season.
U-pick strawberries and raspberries are $4.50/lb.
U-pick baskets (4 litres) are available in our produce store for $2 and must be purchased before picking.
If you are bringing your own container, please have it weighed in the store before picking.
Please call the Broxburn store at 403-327-0909 for any questions regarding the u-pick operation.
For more information on our produce or to inquire about farmers markets contact us at:
broxburnmarket@gmail.com
Or call us and talk to a representative in our farm store at:
