Growing Produce
Year-Round Gardens
Early Morning Harvest saw a dream take root in 2010, when Jeff’s long-imagined aquaponics greenhouse finally came to life with the arrival of the first tilapia. He likes to say he “planned the greenhouse in his head while cutting hay,” and before long he was lovingly repurposing old farm buildings—turning familiar beams and weathered boards into a warm, living space filled with promise.
Since then, the greenhouse has held both experiments and everyday blessings. Jade and Geraniums are still stretching toward the light, while steady favorites like kale and cherry tomatoes fill baskets week after week. It’s a place of learning and care, where growers work together to keep the system in gentle balance. And if you wander through on a tour, you might spot the farm’s own grains tucked among the greenery—a quiet reminder that everything here is grown with patience, purpose, and heart.
The Growing Process
STEP 1
Our growers start over 2,000 seeds a week in grow-cubes under lights with a specific light spectrum to promote plant growth.
STEP 2
We transplant the seedlings to their specific location. (In the picture, this is a hydroponic bed.) Depending on the variety, the plants will be harvested in as early as seven weeks (some lettuce varieties) or continue to grow for several months, until the plant reaches maturity.
STEP 3
Great care is taken to harvest a pristine crop for our customers. Harvesting produce can be very time-consuming, so we are always evaluating ways to grow produce to make it more efficient.
STEP 4
We have a certified processing room where our growers finalize and package the produce that is ready for customers to enjoy.
STEP 5
Our on-site farm store features a full selection of the grains and foods we grow right here at Early Morning Harvest. If you’re looking for something specific, feel free to reach out and check availability. When it’s in stock, we’re happy to have your order ready for pickup within 24 hours.
How We Grow Produce
Aquaponics
Aquaponics refers to a built environment that allows plants and fish to be in balance with each other, the fish provide nutrients for plants to grow and in return the plants clean the water for fish. Between the fish and plants exist all the beneficial microorganisms that help convert the dirty water to nutrients. Our aquaponics greenhouse uses heated water to keep the fish (Tilapia) and produce alive through the cold Iowa winter; temperatures range from a low of 40 degrees Fahrenheit to a balmy 80 degrees when it’s sunny outside. In the summer, the growers get their work done early as the greenhouse can heat up considerably to well over 100 degrees (even with a shade cloth on).
Our growers meticulously monitor the aquaponics systems to make sure everything is in balance. The plants and fish need a specific pH and not every plant can be grown in water. Research and attention to detail are needed to maintain healthy systems.
Any pesticides or chemicals used on the plants may harm the fish and visa versa. Whether those chemicals and pesticides are certified organic or not, the health and balance of the system, and the quality of the product is the most important.
Hydroponics
Hydroponics refers to a built environment that focuses on plant growth, utilizing companion planting and plant families to create a healthy ecosystem. By doing so we can provide similar nutrients that support plant families instead of individual species. The hydroponics greenhouse nurtures a balance between companion plants, flowering plants that attract pollinators, and specific herbs to inhibit pests.
Orchard
A small yet varied selection of fruit grows in the orchard, which was planted in 2004. The orchard experienced damage after the August 2020 derecho and new trees were planted in 2023.
Tip: For anyone who is visiting, the orchard overlooking the pond is a perfect location for a quick picnic lunch after your tour!
Outside Garden
The outside garden space is currently under expansion as we research and plant produce to meet the diverse needs of our customers.
