Our Story
Sharing a passion for gardening and the outdoors, Becca and Mike dreamt of moving to a farm where they could learn about and practice sustainable growing methods while raising their family. They purchased a 50-acre farm and named it after a farmhouse located on the property that dates back to the late 1800’s. According to an old map, it was called “11 Mile House” because it was located approximately eleven miles from downtown Pittsburgh.
After settling in, Becca and Mike turned to restoring the overgrown acreage to fields of native wildflowers and farmable land. They immersed themselves in learning about sustainable growing practices including cultivating their crops without the use of pesticides or herbicides. Rather, the focus is on improving the soil using cover crops, compost, crop rotation and organic soil amendments to create a fertile base and support healthy plants. Of the 50 acres, approximately two currently are dedicated to growing annual cut flowers, perennials, and woodies. Native wildflowers and grasses complete the picture offering a truly beautiful flower farm experience.
As they continue to learn and grow, Becca and Mike are dedicated to sharing their experiences with others to promote awareness of the benefit of buying local produce and supporting sustainable gardening practices. While they are not open to the public, they do share their story through Instagram and the website!
“Earth laughs in flowers”
Ralph Waldo Emerson
The Fields
Of the 50 acres, approximately three acres currently are dedicated to growing cut flowers and vegetables. Several other acres are filled with perennials, woodies and native wildflowers and grasses, and the farm continues to expand each year.
The Flower shop
Originally a turkey roost, Becca transformed the building into a unique and special space where she arranges flowers and hosts workshops and special events. Follow the link below for more information on our upcoming workshops.
FOLLOW ALONG @ELEVENMILEFARM ON INSTAGRAM
