About Wabi Sabi Farm

Wabi Sabi is a philosophy held in the practice of Feng Shui.   This philosophy emphasizes the importance of  recognizing the beauty in the imperfect profundity of Nature.  Accepting the Natural cycles of growth and decay while respecting authenticity above all else.   This philosophy describes what it means to eat with the seasons and how we farm.  The crop rows at the farm don’t need to be straight, there may be some “weeds” scattered amongst the crops and the ugliest (or most beautiful) heirloom tomato likely tastes the best and provides the most nourishment.  Seasonal eating means to eat within the Natural Cycles of growth/decay and not to expect to be eating local Asparagus in July or Winter Squash in August.  Wabi Sabi is the kind of quiet natural beauty just waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.

Here at Wabi Sabi Farm, we recognize that the imperfect beauty (like a ‘Sweet Chocolate’ Pepper that appears rotten when ripe) may taste the best.  We revere authenticity above all else!   Because of this respect for authenticity, our mission is to grow tasty, nutritious, Certified Organic (IDALS) fruits, vegetables, herbs and garden transplants available to all members of the community in the most environmentally, physically and economically sustainable way.

Wabi Sabi Farm grows Certified Organic (IDALS) produce and plant starts and is the evolution of the original Turtle Farm CSA started by Angela Tedesco 15 years ago. Wabi Sabi Farm owner/operator Ben Saunders managed Turtle Farm from 2010-2012 and begun working at the Farm in 2005. With the retirement of Turtle Farm's owner Angela Tedesco from active farmer to adventuresome retired farmer, Ben Saunders (TF Farm Manager 2010-2012) starts his own farming adventure, Wabi Sabi Farm on the healthy land of Turtle Farm.

Wabi Sabi Farm's bounty is harvested mainly for a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program, but can also be found at the Iowa Food Cooperative and as ingredients in dishes prepared at local restaraunts.