Hibner Family Farm LLC

Special Note: We will have both the flowers and berries of the wild Elderberry plant which were the national herb of the year in 2013. Mother Earth News has a special Herb issue out which contains a recipe for Elderflower Syrup. I first enjoyed the syrup in the UK and it is wonderful. We always have plenty of Elder Flowers so you can experiment with the syrup. I recommend it!

Members have picked the Elderberries and made some wonderfully delicious syrups. It is great over Greek Yoghurt and a good way to keep colds and flu at bay!

In the Fall of 2023 I began growing a selection of Microgreens which are available on special order. I have Kale, three varieties of radish, several varieties of brassicas, chard and beet mix, both mild and spicy salad mix. it takes between 8-10 days for the greens to reach their maturity once an order is placed.

Special Note 2: in 2023, after 15 years, I had apples in my small orchard. However, because I had given up on them ever producing, I didn't have them sprayed so they didn't amount to much even though the trees were heavy with fruit. This year, I am going to get them sprayed with an organic spray as they should be. Hopefully, this year will bring wonderful apples in the fall.

Special note 3: Last year I colonized a bed in my garden with Wine Cap Mushroom spawn. Wine Caps are a mild variety. If all things hold true, there should be a fruiting this spring.

Our Purpose

Is to provide healthy local produce to our friends, neighbors, and surrounding community.

History of the Farm

The Hibner farm in Clay Township, Auglaize County, Ohio was settled in 1858 by my great grandfather. My grandfather and father were both born, lived and worked on the farm their entire lives.

I was reared on the farm but couldn't wait to be gone! However, as time went by, it became clear to me that I left the best behind me. I made the decision that at some point I would return to the dairy farm but do a different kind of farming: fruits, vegetables and flowers.

After much too long I was finally able to move back in March 2012. I was finally HOME in every sense of the word. I formed Hibner Family Farm LLC and began a new life.

The Gardens

In 2020 I received an NRCS grant for a 90 ft x 30 ft high tunnel so that I can start greens early. However, in March 2024, an F3 Tornado ripped through and destroyed the tunnel. But from ashes, great things arise. A new tunnel is up with new raised beds so we are ready to go full tilt when the weather permits. I am currently experimenting each year with growing different winter crops.. The cold that has engulfed us froze many winter items but the mass of the beds have not frozen and carrots were surviving. With March fast approaching and if the soil is not frozen, I will plant more carrot along with Romaine lettuce, radishes and various greens including the wonderful tasting and beautiful Tatsoi, some of which should be ready by May 1. The beds in the High Tunnel are all raised (waist high) to accommodate folks with bad backs and knees. The 12'x3' beds are filled with straw, composted mature and other compost. Each year the produce is rotated so to cut down on pests and diseases. Also new compost is added each year as the beds settle.

Currently, there 20 raised beds inside the Tunnel with additional growing areas around the outside of the tunnel.

We grow a variety of vegetables -- lots of heirlooms, artisans and some hybrids from responsible sources. They include about 10-15 tomato varieties; 10 varieties of peppers including Jalapenos; several varieties of carrots; beets; salad greens (mixed lettuces, arugula, kale); spinach; herbs; eggplants; onions; winter squash; spaghetti squash among a long list.
I continue experimenting with various companion plantings to keep the bad insects at bay These companion plants include many herbs in addition to special herb garden.
Additionally, I am planting flowers in a garden near and amongst the vegetables to draw the pollinators and assist with keeping insects in check. Of course, the glory of flowers makes everyone feel better. The herb garden is greatly expanding. I have many kinds of mint including chocolate. In addition to the usual culinary herbs, I grow Borage, Pineapple Sage, Calendula and a few other unusual ones last year.

Currently I have at least 1200 garlic cloves planted for harvest next summer. I will have both softneck and hardneck types.

Additionally I accept the Ohio Department of Aging Senior Farmers Market cards for low income elderly, SNAP and WIC Farmers Market Coupons