Van Dyke Ranch

The Van Dyke family of Gilroy, California has been farming for five generations. Betty and her sons, Peter, Kurt, and Eric, took over the farm from their grandfather in 1975 and began transitioning it from conventional to organic farming. Peter Van Dyke assumed full operations in 1998, expanding the farm to include various dried fruit varieties and enhancing the washing and packing systems. The farm now offers direct-to-customer sales through their website.

The farm transitioned from conventional to organic farming starting in 1975. They have implemented pre-cooling techniques prior to packing fresh cherries, which has improved the quality, shelf-life, and nutritional retention of the fruit. The farm's southern exposure enhances the sweetness and flavor of their produce. They use advanced packing systems, including catch weight bags, clam shells, and bulk packaging for fresh apricots and cherries.

The farm produces organic fresh and dried Blenheim apricots, Bing cherries, nectarines, peaches, pears, plums, and persimmons. They are particularly proud of their sweet, large organic Bing cherries and their signature Blenheim apricots. The farm's wholesale customers include UNFI and Falcon Trading, and their products can also be purchased through Van Dyke Organics. Peter's children, Nicholas and Cody, are actively involved in the family farming effort.