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About this episode
Nestled in the northeastern part of Shelby County, Kentucky, Mulberry Orchard stands as a testament to agricultural innovation and family farming traditions. Approaching its milestone 15th season, this local gem has grown from an initial planting of 2,500 fruit trees to an impressive operation boasting approximately 8,000 trees, with the majority of their crops peaches and apples. What began as a strategic diversification from traditional tobacco farming has blossomed into one of Kentucky's premier agritourism destinations.
Amanda Gajdzik, representing the fifth generation of farmers in her family, shared insights into how Mulberry Orchard has evolved over the years. The transition from conventional row crops and tobacco to fruit production was driven by economic necessities as tobacco contracts became increasingly challenging to secure. The Gajdzik family sought alternatives that would maximize income from their limited acreage while maintaining their farming heritage. This forward-thinking approach has allowed both Amanda and her husband to return to full-time farming, preserving their agricultural legacy for future generations.
The orchard doesn't just offer fruits and vegetables, though, as they provide a comprehensive farm-to-table experience. Visitors can purchase products from over 20 Kentucky Proud farms that sell within the orchard, including various meats, honey, jellies, salsas, and other locally crafted items. This focus on local sourcing extends to their on-site kitchen, which serves a full lunch and treat menu featuring farm-fresh ingredients. Amanda emphasizes the difference between supermarket produce and truly fresh farm offerings, noting that many people who claim not to enjoy peaches have simply never experienced a tree-ripened peach harvested at peak perfection.
Agritourism plays a pivotal role in Mulberry Orchard's business model. The farm has thoughtfully incorporated educational elements throughout the property, including a playground featuring repurposed farm equipment like a grain bin filled with corn and a gutted combine harvester transformed into slides. These interactive installations are complemented by informative signage teaching visitors about agricultural practices and facts. Even their corn maze contains educational stations sharing statistics about family farming in America, reinforcing their commitment to agricultural awareness while providing entertainment.
Beyond daily operations, Mulberry Orchard hosts several seasonal events that draw visitors from across the region. Their annual calendar includes a Peach Festival in late July, a Sunflower Festival with butterfly releases, and fall activities centered around apple picking and pumpkin patches. The farm has even hosted the Luke Bryan Farm Tour twice, welcoming up to 15,000 visitors for each of these major concerts. With approximately 30 employees, including seasonal workers and local teenagers gaining valuable work experience, the orchard contributes significantly to the local economy while maintaining its family-farm atmosphere.
Looking toward the future, Mulberry Orchard remains committed to sustainable growth while preserving the authentic farm experience that has made it successful. As Amanda noted poignantly, farming is "not just a job that you go to from eight to five" but "something that is a passion of the heart." This dedication to agricultural excellence, community connection, and educational outreach positions Mulberry Orchard as an essential component of Kentucky's diverse agricultural landscape – proving that with innovation and commitment, family farming traditions can thrive in the modern era.
