If your visits to the grocery store are anything like mine, they consist of browsing rows of products with a laundry list of ingredients you can’t pronounce and marketing buzzwords you don’t really understand. Piecing together a simple healthy dinner can sometimes feel daunting, but one nationwide initiative is helping take some of the guesswork out of good decision-making at the grocery store: Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) allows you to purchase fresh, local foods directly from farmers.
The “share” process varies between programs, but usually includes a bushel of fresh produce weekly. It’s a fun way to mix up your meals, get creative in the kitchen, and try things you may not see at your everyday grocery. Plus, it benefits local farmers and community agriculture – a win-win for everyone.
Meet our area's CSA options and local farms to support.
S.E. Daugherty & Sons
This farmstand and marketplace is located right at the convergence of Highway 70 South and Charlotte Pike in Bellevue. The CSA program here varies by season, and currently, the fall block is in full swing. The annual 21-week program is broken down into three seasonal blocks (or you can opt for the full package) with spring, summer, and fall offerings, and we’re anxiously awaiting the release of details for the 2025 season. In addition to the CSA, the community is invited to pick flowers and strawberries onsite when they’re in season. FreshAndLocalNashville.com
Bells Bend Farms
This west Nashville farm near Scottsboro has one of the most comprehensive CSA programs around. Bells Bend offers options for 28 weeks or 14 weeks at both full shares and half shares that can be picked up at their main barn, at the East Nashville Farmers’ Market, or the Richland Park Farmers Market. Crops vary every month, but might include seasonal produce like carrots, lettuce, tomatoes, beans, and garlic, plus fresh flowers and herbs. With a CSA membership, you also get free admission to the farm’s sweet southern events like harvest festivals, potlucks, and square dancing. BellsBendFarms.com
Old School Farm
There’s no set CSA program here, but when you support Old School Farm, the community impact goes far beyond farming (though that’s there, too). Known as a “care farm,” the team here uses therapeutic farming practices to support vulnerable community members. It provides jobs for adults with disabilities, teaching skills like working and managing a regenerative farm. While most of the produce is donated to local food programs in support of families in need, you can also purchase some at Juniper Green. OldSchoolFarm.org
Harpeth Moon Farm
This local farm is just down the road in Kingston Springs, tucked between Highway 70 and the Harpeth River. In years past, Harpeth Moon Farm has hosted a CSA program in the summer months with 8 to 12 produce items per box. Currently, the vibrant goods can be purchased at the Richland Park Farmers Market and the Kingston Springs Farmers Market most weeks, including stunning flowers, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and so much more. Keep up with their whereabouts on Instagram, @harpethmoonfarm. HarpethMoonFarm.com