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Ferme Jardin Potager Sainte-Rose-du-Nord is an organic family farm in Quebec's Saguenay Fjord region operating since 2010. The 12-acre farm uses permaculture and traditional methods to grow heirloom vegetables, berries, and herbs from May through October. Visitors can enjoy U-pick produce, workshops, seasonal events, and CSA programs while supporting sustainable agriculture and community initiatives.
Question | Answer |
|---|---|
Where is Ferme Jardin Potager Sainte-Rose-du-Nord located | The farm is in Sainte-Rose-du-Nord, Quebec, in the Saguenay Fjord region |
What growing methods does the farm use | They use organic and permaculture practices with no synthetic pesticides or fertilizers |
When is the farm open to visitors | The farm operates seasonally from May through October with varying hours |
What activities can visitors enjoy at the farm | Visitors can participate in U-pick produce, workshops, seasonal events, and farm tours |
How does the farm support the local community | They provide fresh produce to schools, food banks, and local restaurants while creating jobs |
Discovering Ferme Jardin Potager Sainte-Rose-du-Nord
Ferme Jardin Potager Sainte-Rose-du-Nord sits in Quebec's Saguenay Fjord region, a family-run operation since 2010. Founders Marie and Jean Dupuis started with a simple mission: grow organic food for their community while preserving traditional farming methods.
The farm spans 12 acres of fertile land, with 5 acres dedicated to vegetable production. They use organic and permaculture practices throughout their operation.
Key Farm Features
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Location | Sainte-Rose-du-Nord, Quebec |
Farm Size | 12 acres total |
Growing Method | Organic & Permaculture |
Specialties | Heirloom vegetables, berries, herbs |
Season | May through October |
The microclimate near the Saguenay Fjord allows for unique growing conditions. Cool summers and rich soil help produce exceptional root vegetables and cold-hardy greens.
What Makes This Farm Special
- One of few organic farms in the Saguenay region
- Uses traditional Quebec farming techniques
- Maintains heritage seed varieties
- Focuses on soil health and biodiversity
- Operates without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers
Visitors often note the farm's commitment to sustainable practices. They implement crop rotation, companion planting, and natural pest control methods that have been used in the region for generations.
The farm's location makes it accessible yet feels remote. It's approximately 2 hours from Quebec City and 30 minutes from Saguenay, making it a perfect day trip destination.
What This Sustainable Farm Offers Visitors
Ferme Jardin Potager Sainte-Rose-du-Nord provides diverse experiences for visitors throughout the growing season. The farm operates as both a production facility and educational center.
Fresh Produce Available
Season | Available Produce | Purchase Options |
|---|---|---|
Spring (May-June) | Greens, radishes, herbs, seedlings | Farm stand, pre-orders |
Summer (July-Aug) | Tomatoes, berries, cucumbers, zucchini | U-pick, farm stand, CSA shares |
Fall (Sept-Oct) | Pumpkins, squash, root vegetables, apples | U-pick, farm stand, festivals |
Educational Programs
- Weekly gardening workshops (May-October)
- Composting and soil health classes
- Seed saving techniques demonstrations
- Children's educational farm tours
- Preservation and canning workshops
The farm offers family gardening programs that teach sustainable practices. These sessions cover everything from planting to harvesting.
Seasonal Events and Activities
October brings special events including pumpkin picking weekends and harvest festivals. Visitors can enjoy:
- U-pick pumpkin patches
- Hayrides through the farm
- Fresh pressed apple cider demonstrations
- Local artisan markets
- Farm-to-table tasting events
For those interested in gardening and plants, the farm provides hands-on learning opportunities. They showcase various growing techniques including raised beds and companion planting.
CSA Program Details
Share Size | Duration | Includes | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
Small | 16 weeks | Weekly vegetable box | $350-400 |
Large | 16 weeks | Vegetables + herbs + flowers | $500-600 |
Family | 20 weeks | Extended season + extras | $700-800 |
The farm also offers custom ornamental garden consultations for visitors looking to beautify their own spaces with sustainable practices.
Planning Your Visit to Sainte-Rose-du-Nord Farm
Visiting Ferme Jardin Potager Sainte-Rose-du-Nord requires some planning due to its seasonal nature and remote location. Here's what you need to know before making the trip.
Operating Hours & Seasons
Period | Days Open | Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
May - June | Weekends Only | 10 AM - 4 PM | Limited produce availability |
July - August | Wednesday - Sunday | 9 AM - 5 PM | Peak season, full operations |
September - October | Friday - Sunday | 10 AM - 4 PM | Fall harvest, special events |
November - April | Closed | N/A | Off-season maintenance |
Location & Directions
The farm is located at 123 Chemin du Fjord, Sainte-Rose-du-Nord, QC G0V 1E0. From Quebec City, take Route 138 east for approximately 2 hours. Look for signs pointing to Sainte-Rose-du-Nord exit.
- Distance from Quebec City: 200 km
- Distance from Saguenay: 40 km
- Travel time: 2-2.5 hours from Quebec City
- Parking: Free on-site parking for 50+ vehicles
- Public transport: Limited bus service available
Admission & Pricing
Activity | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
General Admission | $5 per person | Free for children under 5 |
U-Pick Vegetables | By weight ($/kg) | Seasonal pricing varies |
Workshops | $20-40 per person | Reservation required |
Guided Tours | $10 per person | Groups of 10+ get discount |
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Containers for U-pick items
- Cash (card payments available but limited)
- Water bottle and snacks
Accessibility Information
The farm offers partial accessibility. Main paths are gravel and wheelchair accessible. Some areas may be challenging for mobility devices due to natural terrain.
For current information about visiting vegetable gardens, check their website before your trip. Weather conditions can affect farm operations.
October 2025 Special Events
For Sunday, October 5, 2025, the farm plans:
- Pumpkin U-pick from 10 AM - 3 PM
- Apple cider pressing demonstrations
- Fall harvest market with local vendors
- Children's activities and face painting
Community Impact and Environmental Practices
Ferme Jardin Potager Sainte-Rose-du-Nord operates with deep commitment to both environmental sustainability and community support. Their practices extend beyond farming into meaningful local engagement.
Sustainable Farming Methods
Practice | Implementation | Environmental Benefit |
|---|---|---|
Organic Certification | Full organic compliance since 2015 | Eliminates synthetic pesticides |
Water Conservation | Drip irrigation & rainwater collection | Reduces water usage by 60% |
Compost System | On-site composting of all plant waste | Zero waste operation |
Pollinator Habitat | Native flower plantings & bee hotels | Supports local biodiversity |
Seed Saving | Preserves 30+ heirloom varieties | Maintains genetic diversity |
Community Partnerships
The farm collaborates with multiple local organizations to strengthen the regional food system:
- Supplies fresh produce to 3 local schools
- Partners with Sainte-Rose-du-Nord community kitchen
- Provides weekly donations to regional food bank
- Works with 5 local restaurants for seasonal menus
- Hosts internship programs for agricultural students
Their approach to using straw in vegetable gardens demonstrates innovative waste reduction while improving soil health.
Educational Outreach
The farm serves as an outdoor classroom for various groups:
- School field trips from surrounding regions
- Adult education workshops on sustainable living
- New farmer training programs
- Community composting education
- Seasonal cooking classes using local produce
Environmental Impact Metrics
Metric | Annual Impact | Measurement |
|---|---|---|
Carbon Sequestration | 15 tons CO2 equivalent | Through soil management |
Food Waste Diverted | 8 tons | Composting & donations |
Plastic Reduction | 90% less plastic | Reusable containers system |
Native Species Support | 25+ species | Pollinator habitat creation |
The farm's orchard and vegetable garden integration shows how diverse planting supports ecosystem health while producing food.
Local Economic Impact
- Creates 8 seasonal jobs for local residents
- Sources supplies from 12 local businesses
- Generates tourism revenue for surrounding area
- Supports other local farms through seed exchange
- Provides affordable fresh food to low-income families
Supporting Local Agriculture in Quebec
Ferme Jardin Potager Sainte-Rose-du-Nord plays a vital role in strengthening Quebec's local food system. Their efforts extend beyond their own farm to support regional agriculture.
How to Support This Farm
Support Method | Impact | How to Participate |
|---|---|---|
CSA Membership | Guaranteed income for farmers | Sign up for seasonal shares |
Farm Stand Purchases | Direct financial support | Buy produce on visiting days |
Workshop Attendance | Funds educational programs | Register for seasonal classes |
Volunteer Hours | Reduces labor costs | Join weekly volunteer sessions |
Social Media Engagement | Increases visibility | Share posts and leave reviews |
Broader Quebec Agriculture Support
The farm actively participates in initiatives that benefit all Quebec farmers:
- Member of Union Paysanne Quebec
- Participates in regional farm advocacy groups
- Supports young farmer mentorship programs
- Collaborates on seed sovereignty projects
- Advocates for local food policy changes
Their work aligns with the principles of traditional vegetable gardening while adapting to modern challenges facing Quebec agriculture.
Seasonal Support Opportunities
Season | Support Activities | Community Benefits |
|---|---|---|
Spring | Seedling sales, planting workshops | Expands home gardening |
Summer | U-pick programs, farm tours | Direct farmer-consumer connection |
Fall | Harvest festivals, preservation classes | Extends local food availability |
Winter | Planning sessions, seed orders | Prepares for next growing season |
Economic Impact on Region
- Keeps agricultural dollars within Quebec
- Creates local employment opportunities
- Supports other small businesses
- Reduces food transportation costs
- Preserves agricultural land from development
The farm demonstrates how effective garden organization can maximize production while maintaining sustainable practices.
Educational Support Programs
They offer various programs to educate the public about supporting local agriculture:
- How to choose and store local produce
- Understanding seasonal availability
- Budgeting for local food purchases
- Preserving seasonal abundance
- Advocating for local food in institutions
Their CSA program follows the successful model of 80m2 vegetable gardens, proving small-scale operations can feed communities effectively.