Rain Crow Farm

Started in 2018, Rain Crow Farm grows on a quarter-acre urban farm in the heart of Johnson City. Shorter-term crops requiring more attention are grown on this small parcel while longer-term crops like potatoes are grown on a half acre of leased land on Jonesborough’s Grand Oak Farm. Since they’re on a relatively small piece of land, everything they do is in the name of efficiency. Almost every square foot of land is used and succession plant where possible while not increasing pest pressure. In the next few years, they hope to expand on to a larger piece of property to accommodate more CSA members on their wait-list and the increased demand for their produce.

While not certified organic, Rain Crow believes in sustainable farming and goes above and beyond NOP standards. Herbicides and pesticides are not used unless absolutely necessary - if spraying is necessary, they use OMRI-/NOP-approved sprays like neem oil. They invest in the soil’s health by practicing crop rotation, applying compost, leaving the soil as undisturbed by tractors and tilling as possible. They use natural fertilizers, row covers, crop rotation, and compost teas to manage weeds and pests. They’ve been experimenting with companion planting to attract beneficial insects and pollinators and repel harmful pests.

They offer full and half CSA shares as well as a flower CSA. They also sell at our markets and supply various area restaurants. Crops grown include winter and summer squash, green beans, onion and shallots, okra, celery, broccoli and broccolini, lettuce mix, radishes, turnips, carrots, beets, potatoes, snap peas, slicer and cherry tomatoes, kale, garlic, eggplant, and peppers. They also put together attractive cut flower bouquets for their CSA, markets, and various events.

Owners Rachel and Dylan have some advice for beginning farmers: “Start small and learn as much as you can before starting. It’s hard work and isn’t for everyone. Once you have a few years of filing a Schedule F, you can apply for grants for various projects. Take advantage of those cost-sharing programs and educational/extension services.”

Visit their website and follow them on Facebook (Rain Crow Farm) and Instagram (raincrowfarm).