A Visit to Yuma’s Date Palm Oasis
During a recent visit to Yuma, Arizona, we had the privilege of walking through the serene rows of majestic date palms at Marta’s Garden. Months earlier, the farm had applied Liquid Natural Clay (LNC) to its orchards, and we were eager to see the results firsthand.
The difference was striking. The palms looked vibrant, healthy, and full of promise. As Operations Manager Fernanda Preciado noted, the farm has achieved an impressive 25% reduction in water and electricity use — a significant achievement in one of the driest farming regions in the United States.
The Story Behind Marta’s Garden
Marta’s Garden was founded by Mr. Rogers, a visionary grower who named the farm in honor of his wife, Marta. Known for his passion for quality and sustainable farming, Mr. Rogers chose to focus on Medjool dates, often considered among the finest in the world.
His vision for the farm has always been clear: grow dates in the most organic way possible. That means no pesticides, no chemicals, and a commitment to methods that protect both the land and the product. This dedication to sustainability made the partnership with Desert Control a natural fit — especially since LNC is organically certified.
Tackling Water Scarcity with Innovation
In the desert climate of Yuma, water is more than a resource — it’s a lifeline. As Fernanda explained, the need for water efficiency is crucial not just for today, but for the decades ahead. “Many people ask us how we see things in 20 years,” she said. “Water will have to be improved. That’s why, when we heard about LNC and applied it, the results were unbelievable — 25% savings in water and electricity.”
This isn’t just about reducing costs; it’s about investing in the future. LNC helps improve irrigation efficiency, ensuring that every drop of water contributes to healthier, more resilient crops.
A Labor of Love
For those who work at Marta’s Garden, the farm is more than a business — it’s a community. “We are working with amazing people every day,” Fernanda shared, looking out across the palms. Mrs. Rogers often says they grow dates “with love, like raising children,” and that sentiment is deeply felt across the team.
Every date harvested from Marta’s Garden carries with it this dedication and care. Knowing that their Medjool dates will find their way into homes around the world is a source of pride for everyone involved.
Looking Ahead
Marta’s Garden is proof that tradition and innovation can grow side by side. By combining organic farming practices with sustainable technology like LNC, the farm is safeguarding its legacy while adapting to the challenges of the future.
As we left the shade of the palms, we couldn’t help but feel inspired. Marta’s Garden isn’t just producing world-class dates — it’s showing what’s possible when vision, values, and technology come together.