Johnson's Homegrown sells plenty of produce

SEELEY LAKE - Jesse and Chuad Johnson of Johnson's Homegrown sell whatever crops they can grow on their farm west of Missoula every Sunday at the Seeley Lake Market.

Jesse said they mostly sell vegetables but they sell fruit whenever they can. He estimates they offer anywhere from 50 to 60 crops including golden beets, broccoli and green onions. Some of their most popular products include kohlrabi, sugar snap peas and carrots.

"We try to give a good mix of everyday items and unique items that you won't find in the store," he said.

The married couple has been selling produce at the Seeley Lake Market since its inception. Jesse began farming in 2003 after returning from the Navy and marrying into Chuad's "farming family."

The family starts cultivating 11 acres in 11 greenhouses every year around mid-February. Once the seeds germinate, they plant them into a six-pack. Afterwards they will plant their produce into the ground of the greenhouses before moving them outside once the weather gets warmer.

Jesse's favorite aspect of working in agriculture has been the exercise and eating "fresh, local" food.

Outside of the Seeley Lake Market, the family also participates in Missoula and Helena's markets.

Jesse said he enjoys seeing returning customers come out and support local businesses.

"There's a lot of early mornings, late nights, that kind of ... overcomes you sometimes, you get super tired and fall asleep on the way here, but once you get here, you get pumped," he said. "And once people start coming, it's ... cool to see people keep coming back and knowing they like what you're offering them."