Though our organic potted herbs are grown in soil, we grow all our basil hydroponically from organic seed in nutrient-rich water, not soil. Most people are somewhat familiar with hydroponics, but the basic premise of the method is removing soil from the growing equation.
Traditionally, soil acts as a storage battery for nutrients and microbes, and gives plant roots a stable place to anchor themselves. Much like making a cup of tea, water draws nutrients out of the soil, creating a rich solution that plants can absorb.
In hydroponics, we simply dissolve the nutrients directly into the water and let the roots have direct contact with that rich solution–no soil needed.
Unlike many growers, we inspect every plant and we select only the best plants for harvest, ensuring that you continue to have a consistently high-quality, flavorful experience.
Additionally, all of our products are GFSI food-safety certified and packed in recyclable packaging.
The farm was started in the early 90s by Dick, Dee, and their son, Roger. It started as a backyard hobby, growing lettuce and tomatoes hydroponically. Seeing some success, they decided to incorporate as Sun Aqua Farms and deliver to grocery stores and restaurants.
One of their first customers, Whole Foods, asked if they could produce basil. Though they hadn’t yet, they planted a crop, sold it all, and converted all their greenhouses into basil producers. As their customer base grew, they built more and more greenhouses, expanding to meet demand.
Josh and Tim worked for Roger for many years through the 2010s, after his parents retired from the business. When Roger was ready to retire in early 2023, they took over as Kennedy Creek Growers and are excited to grow the farm into the future!
