The secret to our success is a combination of our fertile soil, unique micro-climate on the shore of Lake Okeechobee, and cultivation techniques.

Organic Soil. Much of the surrounding farmlands were once part of the Everglades. The remnants of that era provide us with an exceptional growing medium. The "other Black Gold," our organic soil is rich in nutrients, virtually eliminating the need for fertilizer application.

Geographic location. The tropical climate of our southern longitude means that temperatures remain warm almost all year. Our proximity to a large body of water, Lake Okeechobee, helps to reduce frost damage on those few chilly nights. Frost protection equipment is required an average of only 1-3 nights per year.

Cultivation Techniques. We employ many innovative and traditional cultivation techniques to grow the healthiest plants possible. For example, gongura is grown in plastic covered raised beds. The plastic is black on the bottom to discourage weed growth; the top is white to keep the soil temperature cool and moist. Grown primarily during the rainy season, the raised beds allow the gongura (a.k.a. roselle) to survive without drowning or being washed away.