In Somerset Township, Pennsylvania, a husband‑and‑wife team is turning a family farm into a source of fresh, nutrient‑rich food for the Greater Pittsburgh region. Ashley and Jared Yocum, both 42, launched Eighty‑Four Microgreens nearly two years ago as an extension of their dairy operation, A Little Bit of Heaven Farm, located near Interstate 70.
From Curiosity to Community Supply
Neither Yocum had heard of microgreens until an online video sparked their interest. After taking a short class, they purchased trays, seeds and soil, and began planting in a single room of their farm. Today, the couple harvests and delivers microgreens – at no charge – to households and restaurants throughout the South Hills and surrounding suburbs.
What Are Microgreens?
Microgreens are tiny, young vegetable and herb greens harvested when the first true leaves appear, typically one to three inches tall. Though they are the juvenile forms of kale, spinach, arugula and other staples, they contain higher concentrations of vitamins and minerals, making them a flavorful, nutrient‑dense garnish for many local eateries.
Building a Local Food Network
Eight‑Four Microgreens now supplies roughly half a dozen restaurants and appears regularly at farmers markets in Washington, Peters Township, Canonsburg, Claysville, Mt. Lebanon, Upper St. Clair, Bridgeville, Coraopolis, Aspinwall, Robinson, Bloomfield and Homestead. The Yocums travel considerable distances to bring their product to market, underscoring their commitment to the community that raised them.
Family, Faith, and Hard Work
Ashley, a Bentworth High School graduate, works full‑time as a pharmacist for a large consulting firm while homeschooling two of their four sons and managing the microgreen operation. Jared tends the farm, oversees production, and handles the delivery of milk, chicken eggs and, soon, duck eggs. Their dedication reflects a traditional family work ethic that many in the area value.
Challenges and Future Plans
The Yocums acknowledge that running a daily‑operated business while juggling multiple full‑time jobs is demanding. A three‑week shutdown early in the venture tested their resolve, but they persisted. They have installed refrigeration and lighting systems that keep the grow room illuminated for 18 hours a day, allowing them to produce year‑round regardless of weather.
Looking ahead, the couple hopes to add a second delivery driver and expand their product line. While a family vacation remains out of reach for now, they remain optimistic about the long‑term viability of their microgreen enterprise.
Community Roots
The Yocums purchased their home from Ashley’s parents in 2022, becoming third‑generation owners of the property. Their children represent a fourth generation of the family’s presence in Somerset Township, reinforcing deep local ties.
“We haven’t really had complaints about the quality of our greens,” Ashley says. “We are in this for the long haul.” Their story illustrates how entrepreneurial spirit, family dedication, and a focus on wholesome nutrition can contribute to a healthier, more self‑reliant community.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
