Sustainable Practices

In 2020, Kerns Homegrown planted over 220 acres of cover crops, primarily oats, rye, and radishes depending on field condition and soil health goals. This sustainable practice has now been used for more than a decade at Kerns Homegrown, providing weed and erosion control while alleviating soil compaction.

In 2018, Blake installed an SDI system on 80 acres of light soil to better utilize land surrounding his farm headquarters. SDI reduces weed pressure and water use by up to 50% compared to other irrigation practices. It saves water by eliminating surface water evaporation, with the added benefit of reducing the incidence of weeds and disease. 

Kerns Homegrown also practices no-till farming to decrease the amount of soil erosion tillage causes. Other benefits of no-till include an increase in the amount of water that infiltrates into the soil, soil retention of organic matter, and nutrient cycling. Since Blake added grain farming to the specialty crop operation in 2013, they have no-tilled over 50% of their ground, including 100% of their soybeans.

Kerns Homegrown uses an IPM system to monitor pests and insects. Using pheromone lures to catch and monitor corn earworm moths, we have been able to greatly reduce the use of insecticides, increasing safety for the applicator, consumer and environment. In addition, Blake's decade-long use of electric fences have provided an animal-safe way to protect his delicious fruits and vegetables. 

In order to reduce their carbon footprint, Kerns Homegrown has increasingly gone away from combustion engines and into electric units. Blake currently has electric ATV’s and reefer units, with orders in place for multiple electric trucks. 

Kerns Homegrown has recently constructed two 144’ X 30’ high tunnels where they are growing raspberries. High tunnels provide protection from extreme weather, extend the growing season, and benefit natural resources by improving plant health and vigor.  

Kerns Homegrown is proud to use Reusable Packaging Containers (RPCs) for its sweet corn and green beans. RPCs are a sustainable packaging solution. They keep the product fresh, reduce damage in transit and lower the environmental impact of the worlds leading supply chains. This means less food waste and higher quality products for our great customers.