In 2004, equipped with a borrowed tractor and boundless determination, Adriana Silva and Chris Tuohig began their farming journey on just four leased acres in Santa Cruz County. The name "Tomatero"—which means "tomato picker" in Spanish—was playfully bestowed by Adriana's Nicaraguan grandmother when she learned their first crop would be tomatoes.
Nestled in the Pajaro Valley, just five miles from California's scenic coastline, Tomatero's unique environment provides them with temperate conditions that are never too hot nor too cold, creating the perfect setting for organic offerings.
Certified organic since day one, Tomatero's dedication to soil health is at the core of their farming philosophy. "Good soil grows good vegetables" is a principle they live by, rotating their diverse crops, and allowing the land proper rest between plantings.
Their approach includes using beneficial plants, insects, and native hedgerows to naturally increase soil fertility. This careful stewardship of the land allows them to cultivate an impressive variety of produce year-round, from strawberries to tomatoes, broccoli, kale, and lettuce.
What started as a crazy idea has blossomed into a thriving 40-acre operation spread across six parcels. This first-generation farm has grown from humble beginnings to become a cornerstone of local organic agriculture. With each harvest from Tomatero, you can taste the passionate commitment and fruit of their almost two decades of work.
CSA members—head on over to our online Farm Stand Market to customize your upcoming delivery. Market is open from noon on Thursday until 6 pm on your cutoff date. After you confirm your produce items, click the orange button "Confirm and Continue To Other Farm Products" to add the products to your delivery.
Not part of our farm family? Find out if we deliver to your neighborhood. You can even get your whole office in on the fun with our office snack packs. Find more information about our office deliveries here.
