Since the 1790s, Donald Virts’ family has farmed in Loudoun. As the 12th generation to work the land, Virts doesn’t farm like his ancestors. Building an indoor aquaculture system for CEA (Controlled Environment Agriculture) Farms in Purcellville, Virts’ 5,000-square-foot greenhouse utilizes hydroponic growing techniques to grow fresh produce year-round, while using 70 percent fewer chemicals than the farm did just three years ago.
Visitors at the farm can view Virts’ use of vertical growing, allowing more space for strawberries, basil, lettuce and tomatoes, all of which are available this month. The controlled environment of the greenhouse has eliminated the seasonal effects of weather. “From seed to fork, you can’t get any fresher,” Virts says. “You come out here, meet the family, see the crops out the window, and you know where your food comes from.”
And yes, eat local strawberries in March.
