A giant sunflower farm has cropped up in North Stormont—and it’s now welcoming visitors!
In Monkland, Stephanie and Jakob Vogel worked hard to create their farm vision, separate from the well-established Vogel family name. When they purchased the 75 acres of tiled and workable land from Jakob’s parents three years ago, they intended to make a go of it on their own. It was a way to create a life together outside of their careers, Jakob as a territory manager for a feed company and Stephanie as an elementary school teacher.
The pair quickly decided they weren’t interested in simply banking on the family name and capitalizing on generational reputation. So they decided to diversify and make their mark.
While maintaining 36 acres of corn and 15 acres of wheat, these 28-year-olds opened the region’s first sunflower experience destination: Fields of Gold.
TWENTY ACRES OF THEIR FARM WILL BE CARPETED IN TALL SUNFLOWERS.
“Especially during these times, people are looking for activities to do,” says Stephanie. “Jakob has always loved the idea of alternative crops and this just seemed like a good fit for us.”
Twenty acres of their farm are carpeted in tall sunflowers, and in July and August, visitors will be able to walk through the trails and book private pods for photography sessions or leisurely brunches. Capitalizing on their crops, they will also sell fresh-cut flower arrangements and fall decor packages. The goal is to draw locals, Ottawans, and Montrealers; there’s no doubt the word will spread and attract more people from beyond.
This agritourism asset is a welcome addition to the region and it is easy to predict its success. But as Stephanie says, “We’re trying to keep ourselves grounded. Much of this is reliant on Mother Nature.”
