Botanicals and Vegetables all grown to Love the Land.
Strong roots make happy plants.
Welcome to Clay Hill Farm, a sustainable agricultural endeavor rooted in a legacy of stewardship in the Charlottesville, Virginia area and the Eastern Woodlands. Our five-acre farm is dedicated to the cultivation of high-quality gourmet vegetables, aromatic herbs, and exquisite flowers, all nurtured through a harmonious blend of contemporary organic and regenerative farming practices.
At Clay Hill Farm, we are committed to producing exceptional crops while prioritizing soil health, biodiversity, and responsible land management. Our philosophy is uniquely informed by a deep connection to the land, which has been in our family since 1633. This heritage inspires our approach, as we thoughtfully integrate cutting-edge agricultural techniques with time-honored permaculture practices that draw upon generations of indigenous wisdom. We believe this synthesis allows us to cultivate not only premium produce but also a thriving ecosystem.
Our founders, Naya Motta and Edward Pelton, bring a powerful synergy of expertise to Clay Hill Farm. Naya’s extensive background in sustainable agriculture and community-centered food systems drives our ecological practices. Edward, a traditional and architectural blacksmith, imbues our farm with a craftsman’s dedication to quality and a profound respect for the land’s natural cycles. His appreciation for heritage extends to our farming methods, influencing the thoughtful integration of infrastructure and the aesthetic harmony of our landscape.
We are proud to be at the forefront of culinary innovation in Virginia as the first production farm to grow the highly sought-after Row 7 Seed varieties, renowned for their exceptional flavor and appeal to discerning palates. Beyond our diverse array of fresh produce, we are developing a farmstead market and a scenic walking trail to foster a deeper connection between our community and the land that nourishes us.
Join us at Clay Hill Farm as we cultivate a future where ecological sustainability, exceptional quality, and a profound respect for tradition flourish hand in hand. We invite you to experience the fruits (and vegetables, and herbs, and flowers!) of our labor and become a part of our enduring story.
The Dirty Truth About Us
Strong, healthy land is at the heart of what we do. By caring for our land and strengthening our soil, we are helping the Earth and others. At Clay Hill Farm we aim for this to be accomplished through various land conservation techniques. A unique way is by creating a mycelial network in the soil via the assisted inoculation of various native fungi. We are working with members of the Haudenosaunee Onondaga Nation for consult on the best indigenous conservation and irrigation practices beneficial to the Eastern Woodlands land.
Help Love the Land.
This is a movement that involves us all. Whether you’re most comfortable contributing time to help achieve our advocacy goals, funds to help us grow, or energy to put political pressure on our governments to change, we need you on our team.
“We give thanks to the Sun that looks upon us with loving eyes.”
— Onondaga Proverb
Let’s get back to our roots together.
Clay Hill Farm will always be a community-led organization. We’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and ideas, and are always happy to keep you posted on happenings at the Farm. Sign up for periodical, down-to-Earth updates.