"I spent my childhood already working in the garden," says Owen Chase, founder of Just For Fun Farms. What began as an annoying childhood chore: pulling weeds, planting seedlings, and picking beans, has blossomed into a passion for urban agriculture and a successful business of microgreens.
In 2019, Owen joined the YouthGROW program of the Regional Environmental Council, a project that introduces teenagers to professional skills through urban agriculture. "Growing food for my community in urban sparked my passion for urban agriculture and food justice," Owen recalls. This early exposure inspired him to continue working with the council, and even today, he contributes as a farm associate.
When Owen began attending Clark University, he joined the Urban Gardening Club and participated in community garden projects. However, he was searching for a way to grow food year-round, which led him to discover microgreens in early 2023. "I fell in love with microgreens. It was so much fun to grow these tiny sprouts, and they were perfect for my situation. They take up little space and can be grown any time of year," he explains.
"It all began at the University where I was living on campus in a student dorm." he adds. Owen's first foray into microgreens farming was modest: a single tray tucked under his bed in a makeshift mini greenhouse made of plastic and wooden stakes. Today, Just For Fun Farms operates in a 8x16 square meter cultivation space, divided into four growing areas. His setup has expanded significantly, allowing him to grow up to 20 trays a week and deliver over 50 pounds of microgreens to local homes, markets, and businesses.
Owen remains committed to simplicity and quality. "I stick to four varieties of microgreens because I want to ensure quality" he says. These varieties he has chosen for their high yield and quality. I market my produce through a mix of avenues, including home delivery subscription services, farmers markets, and partnerships with local restaurants." As the farmers market season winds down, Owen is focusing on expanding his delivery service and exploring partnerships with the Regional Environmental Council's mobile farmers markets. "I'm always looking for ways to grow and connect with more people," Owen shares. His approach is as personal as it is practical: he often reaches out with simple samples, starting conversations that help him learn and improve. "The more you talk to people, the more you learn. Growing is something we all have in common, but the differences—like how you grow or where you buy your seeds—teach you so much."
His message to aspiring growers is simple and enthusiastic: "Start now. Learn how to grow and taste what you produce, and your skills will develop automatically."
For Owen, the name of his company, Just For Fun Farms, reflects the joy he finds in farming, but his goals are anything but casual. As he continues to grow his operation, he remains focused on learning, building partnerships, and fostering a stronger connection between his community and the food they eat.
For more information:
Just For Fun Farms
Owen Chase
[email protected]
www.justforfunfarms.com