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They Won't Pick Your Pocket At Urban Oasis

Tribune photo by SCOTT ISKOWITZ

Abigail Balfour, 8, picks tomatoes with mother Paulette Balfour at Urban Oasis in Tampa.

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By MICHELE SAGER

msager@tampatrib.com

Published: January 28, 2009

CARROLLWOOD - Strolling down the aisles, customer Paulette Balfour surveyed the selection of tomatoes.

She scanned the different sizes and colors available for filling her basket with her choices. Balfour knew her selections were going to be fresh because she picked the items straight from the plant.

When Balfour wants fresh produce, instead of turning to the grocer, she visits neighborhood hydroponic farm Urban Oasis.

Owners of the farm said they've built their business during the last year by catering to customers who want fresh, organic produce. And though the recent economic downturn has slowed business, it has attracted other savvy shoppers to the farm.

"Traffic is down, but there is still a big demand for organic, hydroponic foods even in this economy," said owner Dave Hume.

"The organic stores can be so expensive," said Balfour, who also welcomes the produce here as a healthier choice. "I like to be able to come out and pick my own produce and know that it's fresh and pesticide free."

The farm recently started changing out crops, preparing for the new growing season. In the coming months, customers can expect to see cucumbers, zucchini, okra and eggplant.

Lettuce and tomatoes are the most popular farm crops, Hume said.

"Once people taste our tomatoes and experience the difference, they often can't go back to grocery store tomatoes," he said.

"People also are surprised at how long our produce lasts. Our lettuce can last up to month where grocery store lettuce is often three weeks old by the time you get it."

Because the hydroponic farm uses a tower system, more plants can fit on the 2-acre spot. Plus, the plants need less soil and water.

The set up also makes it easy for people with wheelchair and strollers to visit the farm.

FRESH PRODUCE

WHAT: Urban Oasis

WHERE: 5416 W. Linebaugh Ave.

HOURS: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday

INFORMATION: visit www .urbanoasisfarm.com or call (813) 293-3276

Reporter Michele Sager can be reached at (813) 865-1523.

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