Jason “Pepe” owner of locally based Pepe’s Plants is a man on a mission. He wants more people to start planting and harvesting sub tropical fruit and growing herbs and vegetables.
"Pepe" wants people to know that growing fruit trees is not very difficult so long as you understand some basics. He is eager and pleased to share his knowledge with anyone who visits his booth.
His experience is extensive. In the late 1990's he and his family managed 7.5 acres of land with a wide assortment of tropical fruit trees and exotic palms. His grove and nursery was located in Southwest Ranches near Griffin Road and 178 ave.
Today his family owns a 2.5 acre nursery in Jupiter Florida and he also operates a small backyard nursery from his home in Davie.
"Pepe" joined our Yellow Green Farmers Market Family in October of 2010. He often brings exotic fruits like Atemoya, Ilama, Pitaya, Rollinia and new varieties of fruit hybrids to share with customers. The Ilama is a fantastic fruit with complex flavors. Illama is a rich sweet fruit and a real special treat.
Pepe's booth also draws traffic for “miracle fruit,” a berry that temporarily alters taste perception from sour to sweet. Beyond the novelty, he says, some people believe it may benefit diabetics and chemo-therapy patients.
"Pepe" hopes that farmers’ markets can one day come full circle - customers buy and grow fruit trees and the following season sell their local harvest at Farmers Markets near them.
"Everyone should look at backyards & vacant lots, no matter how big or small, as micro farms for fresh fruits and vegetables. By thinking this way and taking action, we’ll increase the local food supply available to our community,” he says.
"Pepe" Recommends several methods of growing herbs and vegetables. One great product he offers is the Earth Box. According to Pepe the Season for vegetable growing is almost here so stop by soon and say hello to him.
To visit Pepe's Plants stop by booth #163 on the South side of the Market. You can also visit his very informative and educational web site at http://www.pepesplants.com
