As we celebrate California Grown Farmer and Farmworker month, we want to highlight some very special farmers.  First up, meet first-generation California farmer, Mel Resendiz. 

Following a Dream of Farming

To Mel, being a farmer is more than just a job, it’s the fulfillment of a dream. “Being a farmer means that I have been able to achieve the American Dream.” said Resendiz “To own a business, own land, create jobs for family and others in the community, and to wake up every day doing something that I love doing.” 

Starting out in Farming

Mel’s career in agriculture started in Mexico where he farmed alongside his three brothers. 

Then, in 1977, the brothers immigrated to California and continued to work in agriculture. Once in California, Mel took a temporary job at a protea farm.  At that farm, Mel fell in love with flowers, eventually starting his own Protea Farm, Resendiz Brothers Protea.

Passion for Flower Farming

Mel’s passion for flowers is evident in the way he speaks about his flowers, and the care he takes in growing them. 

In 2018, Resendiz Brothers hosted an American Grown Field to Vase Dinner on their property. Over a hundred guests came to experience the beauty of their flower farm.

Today, the flower farm spans 100 acres and is home to an extensive selection of Protea, Pincushions, Banksia, Kangaroo Paws, Leucadendron, Filler Flowers and Foliage, as well as plants. Many of the varieties grown on site are hybrids, exclusive to Resendiz Brothers. 

California Farmer Advice

Mel encourages people interested in farming to go for it. “Find something you are passionate about growing and nurturing, and once you have discovered what that is… don’t let it out of your sight. Keep in mind that farming is not a 40-hour-a-week job, it is a lifestyle. Farming can also be a risky venture, it takes money, time and a lot of patience to get started and survive.”

“Connect with other farmers who are growing similar crops as those relationships can be extremely valuable and fulfilling. I learned about growing proteas from California’s Protea Pioneers, Howard Asper Sr. and Dr. Peter Sacks. They were the best and they taught me everything I know about these amazing plants that thrive so well here in California’s Mediterranean climate,” added Mel. 

California Farmer and Farmworker Month

To learn more about California Farmer and Farmworker month, visit our online celebration here.  You can get some ideas on how to celebrate the month, and download a free coloring sheet.