Creating California’s first ecologically functional rare fruit farm.
California Native Plants and Fruits from across the world
Nursery
We’ve been growing and legally importing seeds for the past 5+ years in attempts to cultivate and conserve the species that have long been looked over. A majority of the species we focus on are from South & Central America, Australia, Africa, and other subtropical/tropical regions around the world.
Orchard & Conservancy
A 13 acre, south facing slope in Santa Cruz County that is in the process of being planted with hundreds of new species. The research and development of new fruit crops for production creates a diverse assemblage of species that will be sure to delight one’s natural curiosity.
Consulting
Got land and don’t know where to start? Looking to have some help in bringing your vision to life? Sometimes the hardest part is getting going or know what to do. Land is a major responsibility and planting out an orchard is a lifetime commitment. Learn from someone who has made the mistakes and has the understanding to help guide you along the way. Services include: Ecosystem consulting, Plant identification (Invasive/native/exotic), management strategies, irrigation, orchard design, “permaculture” ecosystem creation, ecosystem restoration and more
About us
Nate Blackmore
Nate is the owner, operator and farmer of Wildlands Farm and Nursery as well as a passionate plant nerd who has been in love with plants and the natural world for the past 10 years. He started his exploration of plants with a quest to learn more about cannabis which turned into a deep love of the biodiversity of our natural ecosystems. Nate interned at the National Tropical Botanical Garden on Kauai and Maui and then pursued a degree in Plant Science where he did a thesis studying the Evolutionary Biology of Serpentine Endemic plants, receiving grants from CNPS Santa Clara Valley and the UCSC Norris Center. Upon graduation, Nate began work managing the seed collection and propagation for UCSC’s Younger Lagoon reserve as well as teaching students about ecosystem functionality and California Native Plants. Ultimately, his dream to teach people about biodiversity through plants drew him to start Wildlands Farm and Nursery in the hills of Watsonville, California.
Jabo the Dog
Jabo is a five year old rescue that runs the daily operations at WFN. Jabo runs the farm, clearing the way of birds and varmints. His favorite thing to do is lay in the shade and watch over Nate. His second favorite thing to do is hunt whatever he can get his little paws on. Jabo loves chewing on broccoli stems and eating Jaboticaba fruits. He is a good boy.
Education, Ecology, Conservation, Community
At Wildlands Farm and Nursery we are focused on protecting biodiversity locally as well as regions far beyond. This world is a complex and diverse place, and being able to connect people through the enjoyment and appreciation of plants is invaluable. Collectors, growers, and gardeners alike can play major roles in helping to conserve rare fruit species, as well as support local ecosystems. Let Wildlands Farm and Nursery help to reconnect you to your ecosystem and add diversity to your life.
Art
Art is an amazing way to bring us closer to that which we love. At Wildlands Farm and Nursery we want to make rare fruit and native plant art a part of your life! Yvonne Byers is the main artist and illustrator putting out the beautiful Botanical illustrations as well as the WFN logo. Check out her website to see more of her work.
