SOURCE Magazine Fall 2022 November 2022 | Page 21

SOURCE | Fall 2022 19
After distilling the oil from the peppermint leaves , the waste product is returned to the field as fertilizer and ground cover .
It ’ s smoking because it has been heated to 300 degrees for the distilling process .
lot and helped introduce me to the mint growing community .”
Lakin considers weed and disease control the most challenging part of growing mint . Being a food additive , some crop protection products are not allowed which makes it even more important to stay on top of issues that may arise .
Lakin works with Lane Steinke , Heritage FS crop specialist , to help with his agronomy needs , and appreciates their relationship .
“ Lane grew up around here and knows the area , and he understands that with peppermint things have to happen at just the right time ,” Lakin said . “ I can get everything I need from FS and I trust them to do what ’ s right for me and my farm .”
Steinke said peppermint is different from other crops he works with , from the way it is planted and harvested , to the chemistry and fertilizer protocols used .
“ Heritage FS brings added value to our specialty growers because of our partnership with GROWMARK ,” he said . “ GROWMARK helps us get the specific chemistry and research we need to help our growers achieve their best possible yields , no matter what crops they grow .”
Griffin Kanne checks the progress of still # 12 . The Kannes started with four stills and have tripled in size since 1994 .