Farm life is proving to come naturally at Arden, the only “agrihood” in South Florida and among the first in the state.
The master-planned community in western Palm Beach County that features a five-acre working farm recently earned the distinction of Certified Naturally Grown (CNG), meaning that the farm doesn’t use any synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, fungicides or genetically modified seeds, just like certified organic farms.
Arden Farm is one of just 20 Certified Naturally Grown farms in Florida and among nearly 800 throughout the United States and Canada.
The CNG program (www.cngfarming.org) was designed in 2002 to recognize small-scale farmers who practice sustainable agriculture to produce food for their local communities.
Opening soon, Arden’s farm is run by two skilled farm directors and will produce more than 50 varieties of vegetables, fruits and herbs to be shared among residents.
The five-acre parcel also features an event barn where residents can gather for seasonal themed events, market days and classes on a range of topics, from organic gardening to flower arranging to healthy cooking.
Residents can also dig into the experience by participating in volunteer days and farm tours.
Developed to promote healthy living, community engagement and a connection to the great outdoors, Arden will eventually include 2,000 homes that will back up to a community green space, including parks, playfields, greenways, nature trails or lakes. Learn more at www.ardenfl.com.
