Oklahoma Agricultural Department program gives starting farmers a helping hand

Then, on a small patch of land in Spencer, where she also has a beauty shop today, King took advantage of a state program to use a plastic irrigation system to grow tomatoes, okra, squash, green beans, cucumbers and peppers.

King calls it The Garden Spot, where she sells fresh vegetables grown organically.

This summer, the production has been so good she is selling vegetables to Buy For Less, Uptown Market, Whole Foods and Native Roots in Norman, and Meat House in Edmond, a grocery store that sells fresh produce.

She planted more than 3,000 tomato vines that have thrived with plenty of rain and cool temperatures in the early part of the planting season.

She is one of more than 370 people who have planted gardens after applying for the Oklahoma Agriculture Department's plasticulture program.

The program was developed by Micah Anderson, 53, who joined the agriculture department seven years ago. People who have at least a quarter acre can apply for free installation of the irrigation system that uses plastic ground cover to extend the growing season for three years at no charge.

Jamey Allen, director of market development for the state agriculture department, said Anderson has been popular statewide.

“Micah is well received by new farmers and is able to connect with growers in the state,” Jamey Allen said.

Anderson said tomatoes and watermelons have done exceptionally well in Oklahoma this year.

A heat wave may not stop production as long as it doesn't last too long. Compared to last summer's drought, farmers are doing great.

Production is a lot higher this year than last, Anderson said.