Chestnut Charlie's Organic Tree Crops

Charlie started planting chestnut trees on a 20-acre field in 1995, following organic practices from the beginning. Certified organic since 1998, the orchard has grown to approximately 1200 nut trees, surrounded by a buffer of mixed tree species to protect against neighboring conventional farms. Over 24 years, the orchard has become a leader and advocate for chestnut farming in the American Midwest.

The orchard adheres to organic farming principles, avoiding synthetic chemicals entirely. The guiding philosophy is to select, test, culture, and improve food-bearing trees and perennials suitable for the local climate and soils with minimal off-farm inputs. Trees are valued for their contributions to soil-building, erosion prevention, oxygen production, carbon sequestration, and climate moderation.

Chestnut harvest typically runs from mid-September to mid-October, with fresh organic chestnuts available locally and by mail from late September into December. The orchard also sells at the Lawrence Farmers Market and supplies several local and regional natural food stores. Despite recent weather challenges affecting crop yield, the orchard remains committed to its organic practices and community presence. The orchard is a member of the Chestnut Growers of America and actively participates in industry events.