Orchard

Building the Orchard

The orchard represents one of the most exciting chapters of Chesed Ranch.

While livestock and land stewardship have been part of the ranch from the beginning, the orchard reflects a long-term investment in the future of the property. Fruit trees require patience, planning, and care. Many years may pass between planting and peak production, but each tree contributes to a vision that extends well beyond a single growing season.

At Chesed Ranch, we are establishing a diverse collection of fruit crops suited to North Florida’s unique climate. Peaches, citrus, avocados, grapes, kiwi, apricots, apples, and other specialty fruits are being carefully selected with an emphasis on adaptability, productivity, and long-term sustainability.

Building an orchard is a continual learning process. Every variety, rootstock, planting location, pruning decision, and fertilization program offers new lessons. Success is measured not only by harvests, but by the health and longevity of the trees themselves.

As the orchard matures, this page will document its growth, the challenges encountered, the varieties being evaluated, and the lessons learned along the way.

What’s Growing at Chesed Ranch

Stone Fruit

Citrus

Avocados

Olive

Grapes

Kiwi

Berries

Apples

Mangos (Our other experiment)

Current Orchard Projects

Summer 2026

  • Establishing blackberry, blueberry, raspberry and strawberry production
  • Citrus replanting
  • Adding two additional peach trees
  • Establishing Avocado Trees
  • Establishing first kiwi trellis
  • Planting Shade Trees around house and in pastures
  • Main Garden Refresh Project
  • New Flower and Bush landscaping
  • New Hoop House