From strawberries to cucumbers, Doug and Michelle Patterson grow a variety of fruits and vegetables on their nearly 450-acre farm in China Grove, North Carolina.

Patterson Farm has been in the family for 125 years and employs more than 300 seasonal employees.In addition to farm production, Patterson Farm grades, packs and ships their produce up and down the east coast. Their reach extends as far north as Canada and as far south as Puerto Rico. And while these national and internationally focused markets are important to the Pattersons, Doug and Michelle remain closely connected to their local community. 

Keepin’ it local 

For example, Patterson Farm participates in the North Carolina Farm-to-School program, supplying strawberries and tomatoes to local school cafeterias. The farm also hosts a variety of tours to help educate youth about the importance of agriculture.

Agritourism has become an important part of the Pattersons’ operation. They have many repeat customers and continually add new activities to keep the experience exciting. Whether a walk through the packing facility or an afternoon on the “pick-your-own strawberry” tour, Patterson Farm offers a unique experience for customers and their families.  

A proud partner

Throughout all their efforts, from shipping produce across the country to hosting local students for farm tours, AgSouth Farm Credit has been a proud partner with Patterson Farm. As Doug said, “AgSouth Farm Credit is very important to us. They understand our needs. They are all from farming backgrounds, so they understand the unique aspects of farming.”