Shanti Rade
Whipstone Farm
Shanti Rade initially sparked her interest in farming through a high school internship milking cows and planting vegetables on a CSA farm in Colorado. After completing a degree in Agroecology from Prescott College (Prescott, AZ) she immediately delved into the local farming scene managing the Prescott Farmers Market and going to work for a local farmer. Twenty years and three kids later, she and her partner Cory farm approximately 18 acres of crops still selling at that same farmers market, through CSA and many wholesale outlets. She is passionate about increasing awareness and support of local agriculture and supporting farmers in their success. Shanti began growing flowers over ten years ago and has slowly transitioned more and more of the farm's production and income from veggies to flowers. One of her favorite things about growing flowers in designing the weekly mixed bouquet combinations she sends out to markets and florists. She serves on the board of the ASCFG, her county's Cooperative Extension advisory committee and is involved in numerous other agricultural associations and events. Always striving to achieve a more sustainable farming system, Shanti is currently working on collaborative grant projects in soil health, cover cropping, and farm profitability. With endless lessons to learn in farming and new flower varieties to grow, she plans to continue farming for a long time to come.
Show Notes
Shanti discusses the importance of understanding local demand. Farming isn't one-size-fits-all and it varies by region. Building strong relationships with your local community is key.
Arizona's diverse climates offer both great opportunities and challenges for farmers. She talks about how it can be a double-edged sword and the importance of adaptability in such environments.
She also emphasizes the significance of understanding your soil. Healthy soil is the foundation of successful farming. Conducting soil health studies is a valuable too to optimize your land's productivity.
Labor can be a significant cost in farming. Managing labor efficiently is crucial for profitability and plays a significant role when choosing your crops and evaluating your costs for production.
The age-old question: can you grow anything you want just because it makes you happy? Shanti's perspective is clear - while passion is vital, financial sustainability is also important in the long run.
Shanti shares insights on the learning curve in farming. Whether it's understanding labor costs, managing operations, or dealing with profits and losses, remember not to be too hard on yourself - continuous learning is part of the journey.
