Koinonia Farm
Koinonia Farm History
On January 1, 1951, Koinonia officially opened its doors as an ecumenical training center whose campus currently houses Gramercy Mansion Bed & Breakfast as well as the surrounding outbuildings. Mature people with skills came from far and near and were trained at Koinonia for service overseas. Technical training given was in literacy methods and organic gardening. The garden is still organically operated today (the oldest organic farm in Maryland), providing fresh herbs to local supermarket distribution centers.
Current certifications:
- 2010 USDA GAP & GHP certifications: Farm Review, Field Harvesting & Field Packing Activities, Storage & Transportation.
- 2010 Certified Organic under the USDA National Organic Program
What is organic farming?
Organic farming refers to an agricultural system used to produce food relying primarily on biological diversity & crop rotation to manage pests and to maintain soil fertility without the use of harsh chemicals & pesticides.
What does certified organic mean?
Any food product sold as "organic" must meet the national standards for food safety required by the United States department of Agriculture. An annual inspection by the state's Department of Agriculture reviews the farm's organic plan, fields & processing facility to insure that the management practices in place restore, maintain & enhance ecological harmony.
How does Koinonia Farm fertilize its crops?
The use of "green" manure and "chum" (ground up fish) enhance the nutrient levels in the soil. Cover crops such as winter wheat, red clover, hairy vetch or rye are plowed under with composted leaves with the goal of producing healthy soil yielding hearty plants. It is a common misconception that organic crops are more susceptible to E. coli bacteria. To insure that all of our crops are E. coli free, Koinonia Farm refrains from the use of any raw manure for fertilization.
How do organic farmers manage insects?
Although the U.S.D.A. does allow the use of approved organic pesticides, Koinonia Farm relies on the use of traps, barriers, garlic spray and bio-remediation techniques such as introducing beneficial insects and traps to control parasites.
How do organic farmers manage weeds & disease?
The cost of organic food is often higher because organic farmers substitute labor: mechanical tillage & hand weeding for agricultural chemicals. The use of ground cover also disrupts the habitat for weeds and insects.
By supporting organic farming, you can develop a healthy & nutritious lifestyle for you & your family while contributing to a healthy community and a healthy planet.
Organic Herbs Grown at Koinonia
Herb varieties include:
- Basil
- Chives
- Cilantro
- French Tarragon
- Herb Blends
- Thyme
- Marjoram
- Oregano
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Sorrel
- Spearmint
- Tarragon
- Thai Basil
Herbs are supplied exclusively to the following grocery stores and supermarkets:
(Not for individual sale at Koinonia)
- Giant Warehouse, Jessup
- Whole Foods Warehouse, Landover
- Wegman's Hunt Valley
- Lancaster Foods
For more information or to purchase wholesale herbs, contact heather@gramercymansion.com or call 410-486-2405.
