The Strope family has farmed and raised cattle in Osage County for more than a century. That changed somewhat in 2010 when fourth-generation farmer Bill Strope decided to expand his business to include vegetable, flower, and plant production.
“I have always loved being outside,” Bill said. He devotes several acres to growing vegetables and fruits. His grandparents, Robert and Irene, as well as other family members, help with the farming operation. Bill plans to keep his focus on multiple crops. The family has added several high tunnels, and he expects to add three more tunnels and greenhouses to extend the growing season.
“I’m not an organic grower,” Strope said, “but I am very conscientious about when I spray. I don’t spray unless I absolutely have to, and I tell my customers this. They know what I am spraying and when.”
A Columbia Farmers Market vendor since 2015, Bill sells a variety of produce from early spring through late fall, including cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, green beans, tomatoes, peppers, blackberries, and strawberries. This season, he plans to sell mums, hanging baskets, and an assortment of flowers. On the farm, 100 laying hens produce eggs, which he also sells at the market.
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