ASHLAND — Honey Haven Farm has been a staple in Ashland’s agricultural scene since the 1970’s. Four generations of the Boyer famiy have labored on the property.
Although there are two bee hives on the land, Honey Haven Farm does not gets its name from honey bees. In reality, the family used to own a cow named Honey, and the farm is now the eponym of the bovine.
The operation yields tomatoes, peppers, onions, sweet corn, apples, zucchini and pumpkins in abundance. John Boyer, the head farmer of the establishment, uses the pumpkins to make his own recipe of pumpkin ice cream.
The Boyds sell their produce in a market that remains open from the middle of June until October. Homemade jewelry is also sold, with all proceeds going towards a school in Africa.
Valerie Smith, the only non-family member employed on the property, has worked there for three years.
“I wouldn’t leave, so they finally hired me,” Smith said. “These people are amazing.
“They treat me like family; they pick on me like family. John is amazing. It’s not work.”
Smith enjoys bringing the “weird” aspect to their edible wares. Because of Smith, Honey Haven Farm planted an entire row of cucamelons last season. Cusamelons are a small fruit that resemble a miniature watermelon and taste like a cucumber with a splash of lime.
Honey Haven Farm also hosts an annual Fall Festival. Even though this year’s event will look different, the festival will still include a pumpkin patch, a petting zoo, and a corn maze featuring a smiley-face wearing a mask with the text, “In This Together 2020.”
Interestingly, business increased exponentially this year due to the pandemic, according to Smith.
“This year, we’ve been busy since the day we opened,” Smith said. “Our greenhouse sold out three weeks earlier than ever before.
“We’ve had a lot of new people come through the door this year.”
Throughout 2020’s unforeseen circumstances, Honey Haven Farm continues to be a prominent beacon of proficiency in Ashland’s industry.
