Farming and Pasadena's Food Culture
Pasadena is not a traditional farming town, yet agriculture shapes daily life here more than many residents realize. The city's certified farmers markets, including the long-running market at Victory Park, bring fresh produce from across Southern California directly to local shoppers. Restaurants in Old Pasadena proudly list farm names on their menus, and grocery stores stock fruits and vegetables grown just a few hours away.
California is the largest agricultural producer in the United States, and Pasadena benefits from access to farms in Ventura County, the Central Valley, the Central Coast, and beyond. The farming companies in this guide range from global agricultural leaders to family-run operations that have built loyal followings at local markets.
How We Chose These Farming Companies
We considered product quality, sustainability practices, presence in Pasadena markets and restaurants, community involvement, innovation, and reputation among chefs and shoppers.
The San Gabriel Valley itself was once covered in orange groves and vineyards, and that agricultural legacy still echoes in the region's appreciation for good produce. Today, the connection is maintained through markets, restaurants, and grocers that choose to partner with growers who care about flavor and stewardship.
The 10 Best Farming Companies Serving Pasadena
1. The Wonderful Company
Headquartered in Los Angeles, The Wonderful Company is one of the largest agricultural businesses in the country, growing pistachios, almonds, citrus, and pomegranates. Its products are staples in Pasadena grocery stores, and the company invests significantly in water efficiency and community programs in the Central Valley.
2. Sunkist Growers
Sunkist is a historic citrus cooperative owned by family farmers in California and Arizona. Its oranges, lemons, and grapefruit are closely tied to Southern California's heritage, including the San Gabriel Valley's own citrus-growing history, and remain widely available across Pasadena.
3. Driscoll's
Driscoll's is a global leader in fresh berries, working with independent growers to produce strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. The company's focus on flavor-driven breeding and year-round availability makes it a household name for Pasadena shoppers.
4. Underwood Family Farms
Underwood Family Farms in Ventura County grows a wide variety of vegetables and fruits and is beloved for its farm experiences and seasonal festivals. Its produce appears at Southern California farmers markets, and many Pasadena families make the drive for pick-your-own outings.
5. McGrath Family Farm
McGrath Family Farm in Camarillo is one of Ventura County's respected certified organic farms. Known for heirloom vegetables and sustainable practices, it has built strong relationships with chefs and farmers market shoppers throughout the Los Angeles area.
6. Weiser Family Farms
Weiser Family Farms is famous among Los Angeles chefs for specialty potatoes, heirloom melons, and unique root vegetables. Its presence at local farmers markets and on restaurant menus has made it one of the most celebrated farms in Southern California.
7. Coleman Family Farm
Coleman Family Farm in Carpinteria has been farming for generations and is known for unusual herbs, greens, and specialty produce. Chefs appreciate its rare varieties, which bring distinctive flavors to Pasadena's creative restaurant menus.
8. Kenter Canyon Farms
Kenter Canyon Farms specializes in salad greens, herbs, and microgreens, supplying restaurants and markets across Los Angeles. Its dependable quality and freshness make it a favorite among Pasadena chefs focused on seasonal cooking.
9. Tutti Frutti Farms
Tutti Frutti Farms is a well-known organic grower offering tomatoes, stone fruit, and a wide range of vegetables. Its consistent presence at Southern California farmers markets has earned it a loyal following among shoppers who value organic produce.
10. Scarborough Farms
Scarborough Farms in Oxnard grows organic baby greens, herbs, and specialty vegetables. It supplies restaurants and farmers markets throughout the region and is recognized for its commitment to sustainable, soil-healthy farming practices.
Trends in California Farming
Water efficiency remains one of the most important challenges and opportunities for California agriculture. Farms are investing in drip irrigation, soil moisture sensors, and drought-tolerant crop varieties. Regenerative agriculture, which focuses on soil health, cover cropping, and biodiversity, is gaining popularity among growers who sell directly to consumers.
Technology is also changing the industry. Drones, satellite imagery, and data analytics help farmers monitor crop health and optimize resources. At the same time, Pasadena consumers continue to value personal connections with growers, making farmers markets as relevant as ever.
How Pasadena Residents Can Support Local Farms
Shop at certified farmers markets, ask restaurants about their sourcing, and consider joining a community supported agriculture program. Buying seasonal produce not only delivers better flavor, it also helps sustain family farms and reduces the environmental impact of long-distance shipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there farms inside Pasadena? The city has community gardens and small urban growing projects, but most commercial produce comes from farms elsewhere in Southern and Central California.
What does certified farmers market mean? In California, certified markets require that growers sell produce they grew themselves, ensuring shoppers buy directly from the source.
Final Thoughts
Pasadena's vibrant food scene depends on the hard work of California's farmers. The companies listed here bring fresh, flavorful, and responsibly grown food to local tables. Supporting them helps preserve the agricultural heritage that makes Southern California such a delicious place to live.