Chestnut Charlie's

Chestnut Charlie's has been certified USDA Organic since 1998. The orchard follows organic practices with no synthetic chemicals applied. Because the farm sits within conventional corn and soybean agriculture, a buffer and shelterbelt of mixed tree species is planted and maintained around the perimeter to protect the orchard. Each chestnut tree carries an individual record of its seed source and crop evaluations; trees that produce poor-tasting nuts are removed or top-worked to better cultivars. The orchard grows primarily Chinese species and Chinese hybrid chestnuts, which perform best in Kansas conditions. Kansas sits outside the native range of chestnuts, which reduces exposure to some pests common in eastern states, such as weevils.