At Koinonia Farm, we understand the deep connection between the land and the people who care for it. Clarence Jordan, one of our founders, said it best in 1957 when he reflected on the land’s impact: “Somehow, God has made us out of this old soil, and we go back to it, and we never lose its claim on us.” This stewardship is at the heart of Koinonia’s mission—to heal, nurture, and protect the earth as we grow food that feeds the body and spirit.
Ours is a small, modest farm — Koinonia is not part of the agribusiness industry, but we remain diligent to make it a demonstration plot of sustainable, healthy practices.
The Lord God took the human and put them in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it. – Genesis 2:15 (NRSV)
Commitment to Sustainable Farming
Since 1942, Koinonia has been dedicated to feeding the hungry—both physically and spiritually—through sustainable farming. As stewards of God’s creation, we work to protect the land, air, water, plants, animals, and people. Our farming practices are natural, utilizing no conventional pesticides, herbicides, or fungicides.
We believe that caring for the soil is the foundation of healthy food. Our efforts go beyond organic farming standards, focusing on building good soil biology that promotes robust, nutritious crops. Through methods like compost tea, crop rotation, and natural amendments, we nurture the earth to produce sustainable, healthy harvests.
Certified Organic Pecans
Koinonia is one of the few farms in Georgia certified to grow organic pecans. Clarence Jordan planted the first trees in 1965. They are part of our legacy. Pecans serve as the star ingredient in our bakery’s delicious offerings. Hand-sorted with care and love, our pecans are available in our online store, at our Welcome Center, and in local shops.
Grapes, Blueberries & More
Our farm also features a small vineyard and blueberry patch that yield abundant harvests each summer. Visitors and interns often join us for pruning and harvesting, creating lasting memories of working under the expansive sky. The produce we grow, along with other naturally cultivated vegetables, is shared in our dining hall and with those in need throughout Sumter County.
Sustainable Livestock and Community Gardens
In addition to crops, we often have livestock—egg-laying chickens, sheep, pigs, and cattle—that help enrich the soil and maintain the land through rotational grazing. Our commitment extends beyond Koinonia, as we help oversee community gardens that serve Sumter County, teaching sustainable farming practices to neighbors, interns, volunteers, and visitors alike.
Will You Support Our Sustainable Farming Efforts?
Caring for the land is an ongoing process, from soil preparation to composting, repairing irrigation systems, and tending to orchards. We need your support to continue this important work. Whether it’s through a one-time donation or a monthly contribution, your generosity helps us maintain our orchards, buy seedlings, repair equipment, and expand our sustainable practices.
Would you consider donating $25, $50, or more monthly to help Koinonia’s sustainable farming efforts thrive? Every gift supports not only the land but also the communities that rely on it.
Support a Pecan Tree—or a Whole Orchard
Have you ever thought about adopting a pecan tree? Now’s your chance! Pecans are Koinonia’s main crop, and we aim to lovingly care for over 2,000 pecan trees using sustainable methods. Some are just a few years old, while others have been producing for over half a century. Right now, our focus is on nurturing the younger trees and working toward restoring the older orchards as resources allow. All these trees require constant care, and we rely on donors like you to help us continue this vital work.
With a tax-deductible donation of $150 per tree, you can ensure that Koinonia continues to nurture these trees, young and old. Your gift helps us maintain healthy soil, keep the trees well-watered, and ensure our tools and supplies are ready to work. Whether you support one tree or several trees, know you are making a helpful impact.
As with all our orchards, we care for these trees sustainably—starting with the soil. We use compost tea and other natural amendments to create rich, healthy soil. Healthy soil means thriving trees, nourishing pecans, and wholesome food for all who enjoy them.
You can make your gift in honor or memory of a loved one. If you wish, we’ll send a certificate to their family or friends, letting them know about this meaningful tribute.
Together, let’s keep Koinonia’s pecan orchards thriving for generations to come. Click below to adopt a tree today.
