Plainville Farms

Brothers Wally and Joe are the third generation of Czajkowskis to farm in Hadley, MA.  The family’s farm, where Wally and Joe grew up, was founded by their grandfather John Czajkowski and carried on by their parents John and Angie. Growing up, it was clear that farming was a passion for these two siblings.  “It was never a question that I wanted to farm,” says Wally.

Many changes have been made on the farm that originally grew tobacco, potatoes and cucumbers.  John and Angie still grow tobacco on the original property but brothers Wally and Joe have each branched out to develop their own specialties.  Joe specializes in small fruits and organic produce on nearby Joe Czajkowski farm. Wally specializes in mixed vegetables including asparagus, lettuce, cabbage, pickling cukes, green beans, winter squashes, and ornamental squashes on Plainville Farm. 

Always looking out for a new crop, Wally is also looking into growing and milling wheat as a value added product to local bakeries.  In an area of the country where wheat isn’t often found, Wally isn’t daunted.  “This area used to be full of wheat fields when the first settlers farmed here, there is no reason why we can’t grow it here today.  Most businesses buy their wheat from Canada. It would be great to have a locally produced and processed product to offer them.”

Whether it’s a brand new crop or one that is time tested, the top priority for the Czajkowskis is to grow the very best quality product.  Since soil quality is key in producing the best possible vegetables, their second goal is to leave the soil in better condition every year.  As Wally says, “If you farm well, it’s just better for the soil and the crops.”