About Us
A Small Family Farm
Our Humble Story
In 2008, shortly after Liza & Marty were married, we wanted to change the world, and one of the ways we chose was to decrease our dependence on fossil fuels. So, we researched ways to make biodiesel and leased land from Liza’s family farm to plant 3 acres of Jatropha. We made small batches of biodiesel for ourselves, while waiting for a new processing plant that was set to open in Delray Beach, FL. Unfortunately, the plans for the local processing plant fizzled, and we no longer had a local facility to process the oil from our Jatropha trees, thus bringing our biofuel farming venture to an end. But, every great success story does not come without failures and lessons learned. Even though our biofuels idea was not meant to be for us, we discovered that we REALLY liked to farm, so we shifted our focus to tropical fruits and vegetables.
Prior to us growing Jatropha and eventually becoming Holman’s Harvest, this 15 acre family farm situated in Loxahatchee Groves, Florida, was owned by Liza’s parents, (Maximo & Encarna), and Aunt and Uncle, (Menelia & Pedro). During that time, the main crop on the farm was Watercress, which was sold to supermarkets within and outside of the state of Florida. We bought the farm in July 2013, but because of hurricane damage and years of use, the majority of the farm’s infrastructure was in disrepair…so, we had a vision to give the retired family farm a complete makeover and a new name. Those plans were temporarily put on hold in August 2013, when our oldest son became very ill with a food borne bacteria called E. Coli 0157. He spent several weeks in the hospital undergoing more treatments than any child should ever have to go through, but now he is a happy & healthy little boy. That horrible experience further strengthened our commitment to farming organically for the health of our family and yours!
In the last 10 years, we have built or created: workshops, chicken coops, a goat barn, pole barns, a high tunnel greenhouse, various types of irrigation systems, trellis systems, pasture fencing, fruit groves, permanent annual beds, habitat strips and more.
The re-building of this farm could not have been possible without the contribution of family and friends. We are so THANKFUL for those who have contributed to make our dream possible, and supported us along the way.
The Family Farmers
This is truly a family farm. We are full time farmers as well as full time parents. It has been amazing to go through this journey as a family and we all feel lucky to be part of it.
Liza Holman
Farmer, Accountant, Public Relations, Sales, Marketing, Mom
A native of Palm Beach County, and of Cuban descent, Liza graduated from Nova Southeastern University with a Master’s degree in Physical Therapy. Until recently, she worked in a local pediatric Physical Therapy clinic, before going on an extended maternity leave with our third baby. Liza has contributed to every aspect of the farm along the way while raising our 4 young children. Creating relationships is something that comes very natural to Liza and its a big part of what a small farm needs to be successful.
Marty Holman
Farmer, Plumber, Carpenter, Fabricator, Electrician, Dad
I was born in Cincinnati, Ohio and moved to Palm Beach County with my parents & sister when I was five years old. I received my degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida, (Go Gators!), and have spent the majority of my career in the Telecommunications and Biosecurity industries. My love of farming came shortly after Liza & I were married, and we visited the family’s farm. Once we seriously got into growing Jatropha, we agreed to buy a tractor, and then I was really hooked on farming! I am constantly striving to create a sustainable farm using organic and permaculture principles, and am immensely proud of that fact. I believe that one of the coolest things about farming is that I will never stop learning how to be a better farmer.
Our
Philosophy
Organic
We want to provide people with good, quality, healthy food with the taste that mother nature intended while leveraging the natural components that have already been given to us. Naturally derived OMRI approved products (fertilizers, herbicides, & pesticides) are a last resort for resolving issues.
Permaculture
The use of permaculture helps to replicate the natural occurring ecosystem. We are intentionally setting aside areas within our crops for habitats that will attract pollinators and beneficial insects. These “Habitat Strips” will also replenish beneficial nutrients to the soil by attracting Nitrogen fixing species that actually enrich the soil.
Getting Better
Methodologies for farming are changing at all scales - there is still a lot of work that needs to be done to improve our food system though. We will never stop learning about farming both because of our attitude and the nature of farming. We become a better farm every year because of our experience and education. Very thankful to be farming at a time when we have the opportunity to make our small farm a successful business.
Upcoming Events
Here at Holman's Harvest Farm we always have some events to look forward to. Wether its the start of our CSA seasons, fundraisers, etc. We always have something to look forward to.