We are an IOA certified organic fruit and vegetable farm owned by Liam Ryan and Yuki Kobayashi. We live on the farm with our two children, Kai and Mimi. We began converting the 13.5 acre farm to certified organic production in August 2003 and achieved full organic status in August 2006. The farm is managed by Liam with the support of Louise Rankin and Rónán MacRaois. Yuki works as an acupuncturist and Tai Chi teacher. We take on a paid intern each year through the OGI Internship Programme.
The land is based in the townsland of Moyleabbey, nearby to the historic Quaker village of Ballitore in County Kildare. It lies halfway between Naas and Carlow just off the old N9 (R448). It is ideal land for organic vegetable production, it has a gentle slope and is naturally very fertile having been in grassland for over 15 years. The soil is a deep loam, which is good to work in many different weather conditions.
We grow approximately 18 different crops from carrots, kale and leeks… to spinach, salad leaves and strawberries (and much more!).
Our home farm shop is every Friday from 12pm to 7pm, and we are at Carlow Farmers’ Market every Saturday from 9am to 2pm.
We also buy in the best in certified organic produce from other growers in Ireland and from Europe to supplement our own produce. This is to provide the best choice in organic produce, which many customers are unable to get elsewhere.
We are part of WWOOF Ireland ‘World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms’ and host volunteers from around the world who come to work with us to learn about organic growing and sustainable lifestyles.
We are proud to support Carlow Development Group who have been helping vulnerable people in our community throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. We donate fresh produce regularly. We also work with Teach Tearmainn (Kildare’s only specialised Domestic Violence Support Service) every Christmas. With our customers, we’ve raised money, helped raise awareness and collected Christmas gifts for the women and children who use the service.
We are passionate about growing good quality, fresh, local, organic fruit and vegetables. Please come and visit us at our home shop on Fridays (12pm to 7pm) or at Carlow Farmers’ Market on Saturdays (9am to 2pm) and try our produce for yourselves!
Farm shop Address – Moyleabbey Organic Farm, Ballitore, Co. Kildare R14 D667