Hollow Trace Market
bio-intensive microfarm in Azle, TX
Origin Story & Identity
How did you get into farming, and what’s the story behind Hollow Trace?
After teaching gardening and nutrition for several years at Tarrant Area Food Bank, my friend Charlie asked if I wanted to take over his farm so he and his wife could move to a gorgeous off-grid property in New Mexico. I jumped at the opportunity!
What do you grow & make?
At Hollow Trace Market Farm, we grow a wide variety of annual produce, mostly vegetables and herbs. We also make value-added items like pickles, hot sauce, jam and ketchup from the crops we grow.
What are you most proud of producing?
Hot peppers
Philosophy & Practices
How would you describe your growing or land-stewardship philosophy in your own words?
We used regenerative growing practices and treat the farm like a whole ecosystem that works together.
How does this reflect in your growing practices?
We don’t spray or use an chemicals. We use lots of mulch and compost.
What’s something about your practices (soil care, animal care, sustainability, etc.) that most people don’t know — but should?
We pretty much do everything by hand – no big tools or equipment used.
What’s the biggest challenge of growing food the way you do?
The weather.
Daily Life & Personal Connection to the Work
What’s your favorite part of the work you do every day?
Being outside and not having to go to meetings or answer emails.
What’s your favorite way to enjoy something you grow or make? (Bonus: share a simple recipe or pairing!)
I love making fermented hot sauces.
What are you excited to grow, offer, or dream up for the future of your farm?
More vegetables to help meet the need in the community.
Slideshow
