orange tractor beside four pallet boxes full of garlic with a red barn and cereal filed and sky in the background
orange tractor beside four pallet boxes full of garlic with a red barn and cereal filed and sky in the background

Our Story

We're a family farm in the fertile Red River Valley, growing premium garlic seed and cover crops for Canadian growers.

The Farm Today

John Boy Farms is currently managed by John and his wife, Ainsley. They are helped by their daughter, John's mother Rita, their siblings, nieces, and many cousins, who all pitch in when needed. Everyone enjoys working together and looks forward to the growing season each year.

John is an agronomist with a Degree in Agriculture. He's been using his knowledge and experience to research and develop improved growing techniques for Canada's extreme environment. He began growing garlic and cover crops in 2006, and now specializes in cold-hardy varieties that thrive under cold conditions.

Every season, John shares the knowledge he's learned over the years with other growers. His goal is to promote more cover crop planting, improve soil health, create pollinator habitat, and increase the number of people growing garlic across Canada.

Check out the Picture Gallery to see what their farm looks like!

farmer sitting on seed drill being pulled by two horse with a river in the background

Farming Since 1879

John Boy Farms is a 6th-generation family operation that's been growing quality crops for almost 150 years! John's great-great-grandfather started the farm when he settled in Western Canada's fertile Red River Valley of southern Manitoba. Their land has dark, rich soils that are some of the most productive in the world.

The location's harsh, cold climate and unique environment are ideal for selecting strong, vigorous garlic seed varieties and cover crop species. All their seed is suitable for most regions in Canada.

The family follows a regenerative approach to farming by adding biodiversity, planting cover crops and using organic fertilizers like seaweed to improve plant health. They take land stewardship seriously and are always trying to improve!

Why Customers Choose Us

Sustainable Methods

Cover crop rotations, compost, seaweed applications & mechanical weeding

Rigorous Quality

Every plant is individually inspected multiple times during the season and at harvest.

Cold-Hardy Genetics

Varieties have been selected and adapted over the years for Canada's harsh winters.

Family-Run

6th-generation family farm with everyone pitching in when needed.

Questions About the Farm?

If you have any questions about the farm or need help placing an order, feel free to reach out, and someone in the family will help you.

Contact Us