Suggestions for Small Herb Farm in Southeast Washington
Answered by: Richard Alan Miller
Question from: Miles Ganske
Posted on: February 26, 2007

I am thinking about starting a small herb farm in southeast Washington. the climate zone is 5. There is also a lot of wildlife. Would I be able to use a greenhouse as well as growing outdoors? Also what would be the best town or area to market these herbs for sale in the south east region of Washington State? I thank you so much for your expertise.

I grew up in that part of the world, so I’m quite familiar with the crops best suited for that region. Spearmint is considered the best in the world from this region, and the need for a certified organically grown (COG) leaf product continues to out demand production.

A certified organic spearmint leaf (COG) has been successfully produced in Montana over the last 20 years. And now, with market demands for more than 6,000 acres, I would recommend a Scotch cultivar for your region. Make sure there is no history of verticillum wilt in your soils.

Strips of catnip could be cropped from one field to another, protecting your Spearmint rootstock from contamination. Other mints would also thrive in this environment. Some irrigation would be required, and specialized equipment should already be available in the region. A primary buyer would be Satori Herbs in Seattle.

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