Roeske Farms of Hartland Popular at Local Market

Thoughdidn't open for business until 2005, its first seed was sown 30 years ago when Eric and Patty Roeske met at a church bowling league.

Eric, 52, is a farmer at heart, and he kept the agricultural tradition alive in his family.

“We've always grown our own vegetables,” said Patty, 49. “It's a family activity.”

What started in the garden continued in the community. The Roeskes and their three children have been actively involved with the Ranger 4-H Club in Hartland for more than 17 years. Eric and Patty serve as leaders in several divisions, and their youngest daughter, Jessica, who just finished her first year of college, recently won grand champion pen and reserve grand champion pen for her rabbits at the Fowlerville Family Fair.

In some ways, the Roeskes' involvement with 4-H led to the success of Roeske Farms of Hartland. The Roeske children were in 4-H at the same time the community started to talk about starting a farmers' market.

“We always had extra vegetables, so we liked the idea of a farmers' market in Hartland,” Patty said. “And then our farm expanded. Because of the market, it got huge.”

At the farm

In addition to growing a wide range of fruits and vegetables, the Roeskes now raise swine, chickens, and turkeys. All of the animals are free-range and raised without hormones.

“Our animals grow a little slower and tend to be lean because of all the exercise. It makes a big difference in the flavor of the meat,” Patty said.

Roeske Farms Franklin White turkeys are a community favorite for Thanksgiving dinner. Fresh and dressed, the turkeys are available every year on the Tuesday and Wednesday before the holiday, but the Roeskes recommend pre-ordering the 15–25 pound birds, which typically go for under $3 per pound.

“We also raise a summer flock for people who can't wait until November for Thanksgiving dinner,” Patty said, noting the dinner she and her family had when her older daughter, who now lives in Texas, was home recently.

Because the Roeskes don't use sprays or waxes and don't pick until their fruits and vegetables are ripe, their products are super fresh—and super local. The farm, 2656 Clark Rd, in Hartland, is not far from the market.

“Our produce is hand-planted, hand-weeded, and hand-picked,” Patty said. “You won't find that kind of quality at your favorite supermarket.”

At the market

During the early and mid-summer months, zucchini (50 cents each), green beans ($2.50 per pound), and tomatoes (3 for $1) are among Roeske Farms most popular products at the market.

“Our tomatoes are my favorite. I grow extra and can quite a bit for winter. I can tomatoes, onion, and garlic together and use it in everything,” Patty said.

In August, customers can expect to find Roeske Farms sweet corn at the market, and, in September and October, a variety of squash, including pumpkins, will be available.

If you can't make it to the market, fear not. The Roeskes maintain a self-serve roadside stand at their farm during the summer months, and it's always open.

“When its really hot out, we keep our produce cool in the garage,” Patty said. “Pull up in the driveway or yard and we'll open our door. And be sure to pull far off the road any time you visit.”

Business doesn't end when the weather turns, either. Along with their neighbor's honey, the Roeskes sell pork, potatoes, onions and squash out of the garage on the second Saturday of each month during the late fall and winter months. And special orders can be made via phone 810-632-5737 anytime of year.