Drought challenges NC Farmers, but Wilmington strawberry farm thrives

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) — Dry conditions across North Carolina are creating growing challenges for farmers as they get ready to harvest their crops, but one local farm is bucking the trend.

Lewis Nursery and Farms, Inc. in Wilmington is drawing crowds with its u-pick strawberries, homemade ice cream, and wide selection of berries and plants. Despite the severe drought conditions, the strawberries are actually thriving.  

“We’re very fortunate,” said Lewis.

Farm managers Jackie Lewis and Dorothy Crowder attribute that to an underground irrigation system that draws groundwater from aquifers, along with black plastic covering that keep their strawberries in top condition.

“We use dark plastic because it holds the moisture in,” said Crowder. The tube here is where we run our fertilizer and our watering and every bit is used, there’s no waste in it. If we used white plastic it would evaporate so much quicker,” said Lewis. 

Also, the steady stretch of warm days has sped up strawberry ripening, with berries turning red and sweeter much faster. That prompted Rebekah Kpa and friends to fill their buckets this afternoon.

“I’m going to give them to her for her second food. She’s only ever eaten avocado so I’ll mash them up into a puree. I think Sophie is going to do chocolate covered strawberries,” said Kpa.

I had to try one for myself. 

“Cheers, it’s really good, really sweet and delicious.”

Another famous treat is their strawberry ice cream that draws Wilmington resident Patt Schlegel

“It’s all very delicious. It has been for years, I bring my children here, I bring my grandchildren here and one day, I’ll bring my great grandchildren here,” said Schlegel.

And while the strawberries are growing fast don’t fear… blueberries and blackberries will be ready to pick in May.

Lewis Nursery and Farms, Inc is open Monday through Saturday 9 am to 6pm and Sunday from 1 to 5pm.