Agriculture in and Around Miami Gardens
Many people think of Miami-Dade County as a purely urban region, but it remains one of Florida's most important agricultural counties. South of the city, in Homestead and the Redland, farms produce tropical fruits, winter vegetables, ornamental plants, and nursery stock. Miami-Dade growers supply a significant share of the nation's winter vegetables and tropical fruits such as avocados, mangoes, lychees, and papayas. Miami Gardens residents, restaurants, and markets benefit directly from this local abundance.
Statewide, Florida is a major producer of sugarcane, citrus, tomatoes, and berries. The farming companies below represent the best of South Florida and Florida agriculture, combining tradition, innovation, and community connection.
What Makes a Great Farming Company
The most respected farms prioritize quality, food safety, sustainable practices, fair labor standards, and community engagement. Many also invest in research, water conservation, and technology to remain competitive in a changing climate.
The Top 10 Farming Companies Serving Miami Gardens
1. Costa Farms
Headquartered in Miami-Dade, Costa Farms is one of the largest houseplant and ornamental plant growers in the world. Its plants fill garden centers and home improvement stores nationwide. Costa's investment in research, sustainable growing, and plant education has made it a household name among plant lovers.
2. Brooks Tropicals
Based in Homestead, Brooks Tropicals grows and markets tropical fruits and vegetables, including papayas, limes, avocados, and starfruit. Its decades of experience have made it a leading supplier of tropical produce to grocery stores across North America.
3. Knaus Berry Farm
Knaus Berry Farm in Homestead is a beloved seasonal destination famous for its strawberries and cinnamon rolls. The family-owned farm has been a South Florida tradition for generations, drawing visitors from across Miami-Dade, including Miami Gardens families.
4. Schnebly Redland's Winery
Schnebly Redland's Winery turns locally grown tropical fruits such as lychee, mango, and passion fruit into unique wines. It showcases the creativity of Redland agriculture and supports local growers by purchasing their fruit.
5. Robert Is Here
Robert Is Here is a legendary fruit stand and farm in Homestead offering exotic tropical fruits, fresh produce, and famous milkshakes. It connects consumers directly with the bounty of South Florida farms.
6. Pine Island Nursery
Pine Island Nursery specializes in tropical fruit trees, including mango, avocado, and lychee varieties suited to South Florida. Homeowners in Miami Gardens who want backyard orchards rely on its expertise and quality grafted trees.
7. Lipman Family Farms
Lipman Family Farms is one of the largest open-field tomato growers in North America, with deep Florida roots in Immokalee. It supplies fresh tomatoes and vegetables to retailers and restaurants, emphasizing food safety and sustainable practices.
8. Alico
Alico is a Florida-based agribusiness with a long history in citrus production and land management. Its operations reflect the importance of citrus to the state's identity and economy.
9. U.S. Sugar
U.S. Sugar, based in Clewiston, is one of the largest sugarcane growers and processors in the United States. It also grows vegetables and citrus, contributing significantly to Florida's agricultural economy.
10. Florida Crystals
Florida Crystals grows and refines sugarcane in South Florida and produces organic and natural cane sugars. The company also operates a biomass renewable energy facility that uses agricultural byproducts to generate power.
Trends in South Florida Agriculture
Climate resilience is a central focus as farmers adapt to rising temperatures, saltwater intrusion, and stronger storms. Water conservation technologies such as drip irrigation and soil moisture sensors are widespread. Agritourism is growing, with u-pick farms, farm stands, and farm-to-table experiences attracting urban residents. Controlled environment agriculture, including greenhouses and vertical farms, is expanding near Miami to supply fresh greens year-round.
How Miami Gardens Residents Can Support Local Farms
Shop at farmers markets and farm stands, especially during the winter growing season when local produce is at its peak. Join community supported agriculture programs for regular deliveries of fresh vegetables. Plant tropical fruit trees from local nurseries, and choose restaurants that source ingredients from South Florida growers.
Urban Agriculture in Miami Gardens
Urban farming is also gaining momentum within Miami Gardens itself. Community gardens, school gardens, and church-run growing programs help residents access fresh produce, learn about nutrition, and build stronger neighborhood connections. Backyard gardeners grow callaloo, peppers, herbs, and tropical fruits that reflect the city's Caribbean and Southern heritage. These efforts complement the large commercial farms listed above and strengthen local food security.
Residents can also visit Redland farms during the winter harvest season, when u-pick fields and fruit stands offer an enjoyable day trip that connects families directly with the people who grow their food.
Final Thoughts
South Florida's farming heritage is alive and thriving, and Miami Gardens sits close to some of the most productive agricultural land in the state. The ten farming companies above deliver quality, innovation, and community spirit, helping keep local tables filled with fresh, flavorful food.