Orchalaw Farms-
Since 1854
Hours:
Closed-We reopen Sunday of Labour Day Weekend
About Us
Orchalaw Farms is a family farm, owned and operated by Larry and Heather Laidlaw. The family began farming when Aaron Laidlaw arrived in 1854, so for seven generations, counting our grandson James, we've been a farming family.
Lloyd Laidlaw purchased the present farm property when he and Ella were married. They raised 4 children on the farm. Cancer took Ella in 1992, and Lloyd continued on 
his own for a few years. He then found Mary, and they were married. In addition opening the orchard for pick your own apples, Lloyd packed apples for wholesale to stores, and for his own sales at several farmers' markets. In later years, his son Larry would manage the farm, but Lloyd loved his apples, and would always be at the tasting table to offer guests a tasty bit and a friendly smile. Lloyd passed away in early in 2009, and will be missed by both his family and our customers.
Lloyd's son Larry grew up on the farm and has worked here all his life. Larry and Heather were married in 1982, and have raised three daughters on the farm, Jennifer, Linda and Angela. For several years, they milked cows and raised chickens, in addition to the apples, then in 1995, Larry began managing the farm, and sold the animals so they could concentrate on the apple orchards. The Laidlaw's own 103 acres and rent an additional 300 acres, growing corn, wheat, and beans, in addition to the apples, pumpkins, squash, and gourds.
Our's is a farm family, so of course everyone pitches in where needed, but in general, Larry grows and tends to all the crops, and Heather runs the market and the school tours. On fall weekends, Angela, Linda, and Jennifer, plus Jennifer's husband Richard and their son, James, all return to the farm from other jobs to help out. The rule is pretty simple: all boyfriends and friends are "required" to help for the harvest season. We have a lot of fun, and hope you will come out and join us several times this fall!