AB Orchard- Grower Logan Anderson
Location: Sparta, MI
Grower: Logan Anderson
Logan Anderson is a fifth-generation apple grower who works alongside his father, the CEO of AB Orchard, Brett Anderson. Anderson is following in his father’s footsteps, currently working on his family’s farm and hoping to own and operate his own orchard in the future.
To further his agricultural knowledge, he is currently attending Michigan State University’s 2-year IAT Agricultural Operations program with Montcalm Community College. This program teaches the fundamentals of agricultural operations, including plant pathology, farm business management, and applied entomology.
Origin of AB Orchard:
In the early 1900’s, Anderson’s ancestors immigrated to America; from there, they purchased land in Sparta, MI, establishing a farm that is now AB Orchard. The farm began producing commodities such as peaches, apples, hay, and beef. During these times, production was low and meant to sustain the family. Anderson’s great-grandfather and his uncle turned the farm into the apple-producing farm that it is today.
Love for his Orchard:
Anderson’s bloodline is responsible for his love and caring for the orchard. He grew up watching his father and grandfather care for the farm and knew he wanted to do the same. Now being an apple grower, Anderson finds satisfaction in completing large tasks. Whether it is during spring planting or fall harvest, he is rewarded with the fruit he grows. The joy he feels from producing apples gives him the hope to do it for the rest of his life.
In addition to all the hard work happening at the farm, Anderson also participates in community events. One of these events, “Apple Fest” in Sparta, gives the community and children a chance to understand the work that goes into running an orchard. Other orchards alongside AB Orchard participate in this event to provide apple product tastings, fun games, and educational content.
Competition:
Anderson wants more people to understand how labor-intensive apple growing can be. From planting to harvest to distribution, every stage requires significant labor. Competition from other apple-growing states and countries can be challenging, but Anderson is confident Michigan’s climate and geography provide the best conditions for growing great-tasting apples.
Being the owner of a wholesale orchard, Anderson is focused on developing marketing strategies to prove to grocery stores that Michigan’s apples are of better quality and deserve a spot on the shelves.
Anderson’s Future:
Anderson recently received a scholarship award from the Michigan Apple Committee to help him further his education at college, where he is expanding his agricultural knowledge. Anderson continuously expresses his gratitude for his father, who is always cheering him on and teaching him his ways. He hopes to continue learning and becoming a better grower for decades to come.
