The South’s most innovative certified organic farmer

Black Farmers’ Network member Sedrick “Sed” Rowe is owner and operator of Rowe Organic Farms LLC based in Albany, Georgia. He’s that farmer who makes sure you have access to the best certified organic crops produced in The Peach State. He specializes in niche markets: agritourism, heritage farming and organic growing.

Sed is one of only three Georgia farmers successfully growing “certified organic” peanuts. He’s also the only Black farmer in South Georgia approved to grow organic hemp.

When Sed’s not working Southern lands or consulting young agriculturalists of the Black Belt Region, he serves as chapter president of the Southern Georgia Young Farmers Coalition — one of three Georgia-based chapters part of the National Young Farmers Coalition. He’s a founding member of the Georgia Organic Peanut Association; member/ambassador with Georgia Organics; and partner of Black Farmers’ Network.

Want to start your own organic farm?

“I took a leap of faith, and it’s working,” said independent farmer Sedrick Rowe. “I’m trailblazing in ag industries barely tapped into.”

Article by the New York Times, Photo by Matthew Odom for the New York Times
Farm Monitor, Photo Courtesy Black Farmers' Network
The Albany Herald, Photo Courtesy Black Farmers' Network

ASK AN ORGANIC FARMER

Not sure how to start your own organic garden or farm? These common FAQs can help:

Based on the crop you’re growing and how vigorous it sprouts, invest in a cultivator that can handle your organic operation. Local retailers like Tractor Supply and Lowe’s have specialists who can help you determine the best cultivator for your agribusiness. Remember: Choosing the right mechanical equipment is essential to maintaining organic crops over time.

Using animal manure like chicken or cow are advantageous ways to fertilize organically, mainly because of their high nitrate content. This method to organic farming provides your crops the necessary nutrients needed to sustain.

Consider growing other crops that are known for discouraging insects from your primary crop. Trust me: It works.

Do your research. Know the zone or region you’re growing in to determine chill hours vs. daylight time required to grow certain plants. Soil samples also will tell you what’s in your soil to determine the best crops to cultivate. Connect with your local county agent or extension office to learn what grows well in your specific area as well.

For one, you’re putting yourself in a higher market price, limiting your competition on the ground and online. At the same time, you’re engaging in good conservation practices for your soil and community. Not only is organic a niche market. It’s much healthier. Protecting the environment from toxins makes it easier for your agribusiness to secure new financial support from government programs, too.

Did you know?

6,000

6,000
Pounds of organic watermelons delivered during COVID

1

1
Rowe Organic Farms is 1 of only 3 Georgia certified organic farmers

30,000

30,000
Pounds of certified organic peanuts grown annually

47.9B

47.9B
The reach of organic food sales in the United States in 2018