black-owned urban farms: part 1 – atlanta

By Katie Mitchell / WearYourVoice Mag, AFROPUNK contributor

In this three-part series, we will showcase Black-owned urban farms in all their glory from three different regions of the U.S.

With Amazon lowering prices at Whole Foods Market, we know many of us have been excited to add organic fruits and vegetables to our diet. Eating organically should not require a hefty bi-weekly paycheck, but for many healthy, organic foods have felt out of reach.

Before you commit your life and paycheck to Whole Foods, we wanted to take the time to highlight Black-owned urban farms who have been in the community before Amazon acquired Whole Foods. And they do not have a history of using prison labor or delivering sandwiches to militarized police forces that terrorize Black people, and their prices are comparable! It’s a win-win-win. In this three-part series, we will showcase Black-owned urban farms in all their glory from three different regions of the U.S. Enjoy!

Patchwork City Farms

Patchwork City Farms is a family friendly farm located in Atlanta’s Historic West End neighborhood. As a Certified Naturally Grown farm, Patchwork does not use chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. Jamil Norman, Patchwork’s head farmer, is awesome! She comes from a long lineage of growers and is passionate about introducing newbies to the urban farming lifestyle. Patchwork currently grows vegetables, herbs, and flowers that are sold at local farmers’ markets throughout the city.  Patchwork is a great space for children to learn about farming and healthy eating. Jamil encourages folks to come out to harvest and volunteer with Patchwork!

Truly Living Well Center for Natural Urban Agriculture

Truly Living Well Center for Natural Urban Agriculture is Atlanta’s most well-known urban farm. TLW has year-round farmers’ markets every Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday.  Folks who have EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) can double the value of their dollar at these farmers’ markets through the Wholesome Wave Georgia program to buy organic vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers.  In addition to weekly markets, TLW provides training programs and seminars/workshops for those interested in agri-business and personal gardening.  TLW is also doing great things in the community with young people.  It’s Young Growers Initiative partners with schools and community groups in the area to create a new generation of urban farmers.

Metro Atlanta Urban Farm

Metro Atlanta Urban Farm is a community-driven organization that is committed to providing access to affordable fresh produce grown free of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.  MAUF is best known for its tomatoes and okra during the warm season.  They grow 8 varieties of tomatoes and 3 varieties of okra!  To keep it real,we didn’t know okra had different varieties until interacting with the goods folks at MAUF.  During the cool season, MAUF is staying true to its southern roots and growing an abundance of greens — canola greens, kohlrabi, swiss chard, spinach, various varieties of lettuce, turnips and collards.  You can purchase food straight from the Metro Atlanta Urban Farm.  Also, be sure to sign up for their newsletter to stay up-to-date on all farm happenings.

This post was published in partnership with WearYourVoice Mag.