Smit Farms

John and Clazien Smit are Dutch immigrants who came to the United States in 1953. In 1964 they began farming cattle, which they continued until 1984 when they got serious about fruit trees.

They did some research and discovered that California apples were in short supply, so they planted an apple orchard. Since then they have expanded into cherries, pluots, grapes, and most recently, blueberries. Apples are still the primary crop and are the mainstay of the farm. After the passing of John Smit, Paul Smit has taken over ownership and management of all operations in 2016. Russ and Kristen Fritz also are critical partners in helping manage an ever-growing farm.


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Markets:South Berkeley (Tuesday)Downtown Berkeley (Saturday)Season:
Year-RoundProduct: Apples, grapes, stone fruit, blueberries, jams and juicesFarmer's Name: Paul SmitMailing Address: 12253 N. Clements rd
Linden, CA 95236
Email: info@smitfarms.com
Phone: 760-216-8733
Website: https://www.smitfarms.comFarm Location:
Linden, San Joaquin County, CADistance From Berkeley:
85 milesSoil Type: Sandy loamWater Source: WellAbout the Farm:
Paul Smit owns and manages the farm along with Russ and Kristen Fritz. Smit Farms employ a dedicated and loyal crew who have been with them from 7-15 years. They have 7 year-round workers and 15 at peak season. Smit Farms has several other family members helping market fruit at local farmers’ markets.Fertilizer: Organic Sea Kelp fertilizers, organic nutrient dense fertilizers, nitrogen rich cover cropsWeed Control: Weed eater, cover crops and Wonder WeederPest Management: Beneficial insects, ladybugs, and mechanical trapsAcreage: 160 acres