Contrary to its name, Animal Farm isn't quite an animal farm. They do have two sizable chicken coups, a horse, a pony, pigs, some dogs and a few other small animals on the property, but those are mostly for cultivating purposes. Animal Farm is actually a 70+-acre property complete with a permaculture center, yoga center, extensive certified organic garden of arugula, tomatoes, legumes, summer squash, sunchokes, sweet peppers, swiss chard, tomatoes, turnips and other foods that you'll find at local (including Houston) farmers markets and on the menus at several Houston and Austin restaurants - Local Foods, Haven and Sorrel Bistro, just to name a few. A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to check out Animal Farm for a tour and a seven-course farm dinner hosted along with Roots Bistro, 13 Celsius, and a few other local participants. It was a unique and educational experience in which we learned about the 20-year history of Animal Farm and its permaculture techniques directly from founders (and former Houstonians) Guita Van Woerden and husband Cas. Not only do I looked forward to attending another Animal Farm dinners (about $120 per person), but on my next visit to an Urban Harvest farmers market, I'll head straight to their booth to purchase some freshly harvested and delicious arugula and sunchokes. read more

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Initially, I discovered Animal Farm through Urban Harvest Farmers Market (Eastside). They are certified organic and the only farm in the area that seem to be. They use permaculture principles as part of their farming practices. I admire them for what they do. Frankly, when I start my farm, I would love to utilize their techniques. I've visited the farm twice for farm-to-table dinners last year. The owners are lovely and laid-back. Both times I went, Gita offered a tour and provided a brief overview of how Animal Farm started. It was her idea and she is truly an inspiration. She had no agricultural background at all. The property is about 70 acres and only 20 acres is being used. I believe they live off the grid by using solar power. They offer a CSA program. They grow herbs and all sorts of vegetables and fruits. And also a huge variety of the most beautiful flowers I have ever seen!!! I have been buying produce from them every single time I go to Urban Harvest. Some of the vegetables are: jerusalem artichokes, cauliflower (in different colors), rainbow carrots, green onions, broccoli, arugula, romaine lettuce, beets, turnips, different radishes, bell peppers (all colors), shishito peppers, tuscano kale, dragon tongue beans, cucumbers, eggplants, all sorts of squash, etc. Some fruits: blackberries, jujubes, mulberries, a variety of tomatoes, persimmons, fijoas. I highly recommend you visit their farm in Cat Spring and check out their farm-to-table dinners. Follow them on facebook to see upcoming events. Also, you can pay them a visit at Rice University Farmers Market (every Tuesday) or Urban Harvest Eastside (every Saturday). read more

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