Pomona's Agricultural Heritage
Pomona is named after the Roman goddess of fruit, a fitting tribute to the region's history of citrus groves and orchards. In the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the Pomona Valley was covered with orange, lemon, and walnut trees. The Los Angeles County Fair at Fairplex began in Pomona in the early 1920s, celebrating the area's agricultural bounty. Although urban growth has transformed the landscape, agriculture remains part of the city's identity.
Today, Cal Poly Pomona continues this tradition with agricultural education, research, and a working farm. Local farmers markets, community gardens, and farm-to-table restaurants reflect strong interest in fresh, local food.
How We Selected These Companies
We evaluated farming companies on product quality, sustainability practices, community engagement, regional relevance, and availability to Pomona consumers and businesses. The list includes local educational farms, family-owned regional farms, and leading California growers whose produce is widely available in Pomona.
The Top 10 Best Farming Companies in Pomona
1. Cal Poly Pomona Spadra Farm
Cal Poly Pomona's farm operations, including the Spadra Farm and the campus Farm Store, grow fruits, vegetables, and other products while training future agricultural professionals. The Farm Store sells fresh produce and locally made goods to the public. It is a unique blend of education, research, and community food access in Pomona.
2. Pomona College Organic Farm
The Pomona College Organic Farm in nearby Claremont is a student-run farm focused on sustainable agriculture, education, and community engagement. It demonstrates organic growing methods and hosts workshops. It inspires local residents and students to explore regenerative farming practices and food justice initiatives in the Pomona Valley.
3. Amy's Farm
Amy's Farm in nearby Ontario is a family-run farm offering educational tours, farm-fresh produce, and animal experiences. It provides an accessible agricultural connection for Pomona families and school groups. Amy's Farm highlights sustainable practices and the importance of local food in an increasingly urban region.
4. Underwood Family Farms
Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark is a beloved Southern California farm known for u-pick produce, seasonal festivals, and farm markets. Its fresh fruits and vegetables are sold at farmers markets throughout the region. Pomona families often travel to Underwood for its seasonal events and hands-on farm experiences.
5. Tanaka Farms
Tanaka Farms in Irvine is a family-owned farm known for strawberries, seasonal produce, and educational tours. It offers a community-supported agriculture program and farm experiences for families. Tanaka Farms represents the persistence of family farming in urban Southern California and is a favorite destination for Pomona visitors.
6. Sunkist Growers
Sunkist Growers is a historic cooperative of California and Arizona citrus farmers. Its roots are tied to Southern California's citrus boom, including the region around Pomona. Sunkist oranges and lemons remain widely available in Pomona markets, and the cooperative continues to represent the area's citrus heritage.
7. Limoneira
Limoneira is one of California's oldest agribusiness companies, specializing in lemons, avocados, and other crops. It focuses on sustainable farming and water management. Limoneira's products are available in Southern California grocery stores, offering Pomona consumers fresh, locally grown citrus from a company with deep regional roots.
8. Mission Produce
Mission Produce, headquartered in Oxnard, is a global leader in avocado sourcing, ripening, and distribution. It supplies retailers and foodservice companies with consistently ripe avocados. Pomona restaurants and markets, which serve large quantities of guacamole and avocado dishes, benefit from Mission's reliable supply and quality.
9. Driscoll's
Driscoll's is a leading berry company that works with independent growers to produce strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Its California-grown berries are available in Pomona grocery stores year-round. Driscoll's research into flavor and plant breeding has helped set quality standards in the berry industry.
10. Hidden Villa Ranch
Hidden Villa Ranch, based in Southern California, is a major egg producer and distributor supplying retailers and foodservice customers. It offers conventional, cage-free, and organic egg options. Pomona grocery stores and restaurants rely on Hidden Villa Ranch for fresh eggs produced in compliance with California's animal welfare standards.
Agricultural Trends in Southern California
Farming in Southern California faces challenges including water scarcity, rising land costs, and labor shortages. Farmers are responding with drip irrigation, soil health practices, and technology such as drones and sensors. Urban agriculture, vertical farming, and community gardens are expanding in cities like Pomona. Consumers are increasingly interested in organic, local, and regenerative products, supporting farmers markets and community-supported agriculture programs.
Supporting Local Agriculture in Pomona
Residents can support local farming by shopping at the Cal Poly Pomona Farm Store, visiting farmers markets, and joining community-supported agriculture programs. Restaurants can partner with regional farms to feature seasonal ingredients on their menus. Schools and community groups can take educational tours to teach children where food comes from. Every purchase helps keep regional agriculture viable.
Final Thoughts
The farming companies above connect Pomona to its agricultural past and future. Whether you are a consumer seeking fresh produce, a chef looking for local ingredients, or a student interested in agriculture, these farms offer quality, sustainability, and a meaningful connection to the land.