By Marty Olmstead

Deep in the northern Missouri woods stand groves of trees that have been producing small, sweet pecans since the days of the Osage Indians. Many of the trees are so remote that they have been harvested by grove owners mostly for their own use.

This was a shame, because according to grower Drew Kimmell these pecans are superior to larger, Southern pecans. The “Missouri Northern” pecan’s flavor probably derives from its shorter growing season, which produces a higher concentration of monounsaturated oil. The cooler climate also discourages some of the insect and disease problems that plague pecan varieties grown in warmer climates.

A few years ago a group of grove owners joined forces to develop new harvesting and processing techniques, making their pecans more viable in the marketplace.
In addition to their pecans being chemical free, the Northern Missouri growers decided to go one step further to distinguish their brand. Since most of their trees had never been treated with chemicals or pesticides, they were able to introduce their certified 100% organic “American Native” pecans to the market last May. The products are sold in major supermarkets such as Kroger’s.

Northern Missouri Pecans
3400 Industrial Parkway
Nevada, MO 64772
(417) 667.3501
866-PECANS8

OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS:
Oh! Tommy Boy Farms
Tom and Heidi Kirkland grow 25 varieties of organic potatoes on their 80-acre family property. They dry-farm to enhance the flavors of Rose Finn Apple, German Butterball, and other types which they sell at the ranch, at Napa and Sonoma farmer’s markets and to fine restaurants such as John Ash and the French Laundry.

5880 Carroll Road
Petaluma, CA 94952
(707) 876.1818

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