Occupying 71 acres in Gallatin, Oak Grove Farms has initiated a unique cultivation venture in Tennessee. "To our knowledge, these are the first commercially grown pineapples in Tennessee," says Zach Erhard during a farm tour showcasing their pineapple production.
Established in 2012 by first-generation farmers Zach and Kyndle Erhard, Oak Grove Farms cultivates various fruits and vegetables, with a focus on pineapples. They note, "We love pineapples, and we thought if they can be grown in Hawaii, why not Tennessee? Honestly, they're pretty low-maintenance crops."
The Erhards have planted Sugarloaf Pineapple, distinct for its white flesh and absence of a fibrous core, in June 2023. Zach highlights, "It's a white, fleshy pineapple that is sweeter than anything in a typical grocery store, and it doesn't have a core." The farm anticipates its first harvest towards the end of August.
The current plantation spans 8,000 pineapples, with future expansion plans due to mounting interest. "We just planted 4,000 more pineapples to expand because there's been a lot of interest," expresses Erhard.
Local market availability will include sales through their farmers' market store located on West Main Street in Gallatin.
Source: WSMV 4
