In Xenia, Ohio, a small farm is making a big impact, not just with the food it grows but with the way it connects people to the possibilities of local agriculture.

Green Table Gardens, founded in 2021 by Stephen Mackell, is a 0.7-acre intensive farm operation that’s redefining what sustainable, community-centered farming can look like.

With over a decade of experience in urban agriculture, Stephen brings both technical know-how and a deep sense of purpose to his work. “I managed an urban nonprofit farm in Dayton for nine years,” said Stephen. “That’s where I learned everything I could about intensive market gardening – how to make small spaces highly productive.”

Today, that knowledge is being put to good use at Green Table Gardens, which sits on a six-acre property, though only a small fraction is currently under cultivation. Stephen’s minimalist footprint isn’t a limitation – it’s a strategic decision rooted in efficiency and soil stewardship.

The farm’s layout is built on a permanent raised bed system. The beds are never tilled or rebuilt, but simply amended with composted mulch over time. This method supports soil health, improves yields and reduces labor while keeping the farm’s ecological impact low.

“We’re growing on less than an acre right now,” Stephen explained, “but it’s a highly managed space. The goal is quality over quantity.”

Supporting that high-density production are two large greenhouses (each 3,000 square feet) and five smaller caterpillar tunnels (each about 2,000 square feet). These protected environments allow Stephen and his team to extend the season, control growing conditions and produce a consistent supply of leafy greens and microgreens even during colder months.

Green Table Gardens runs from March to December, with Stephen himself working year-round. During the off-season, he sells his produce at winter farmers markets and preps for the year ahead. This way he keeps the farm productive and in touch with customers 12 months a year.

What started as a solo endeavor now includes a part-time, seasonal crew of six, including one dedicated delivery driver for CSA orders and five employees who help manage greenhouse operations. “We’ve grown and added people every year since we’ve started,” Stephen said.

At the core of Green Table Gardens is its CSA program, which has grown to 160 members, all located within about 25 minutes of the farm. Customers can opt for weekly for biweekly deliveries.

The CSA offers three membership options, each designed to meet different household needs:

  • The Mega Veggie Share is offered from April to December. It’s a large, rotating selection of seasonal crops. “This is our most popular share. It’s the one people think of when they think ‘CSA.’”
  • The Generous Greens Share is also available from April to December. This weekly offering of salad greens and rotating salad toppers are for those who prioritize fresh greens as a staple of their diet.
  • The Microgreens Share is a year-round option. It’s geared toward health-conscious eaters who want to pack nutrition into small bites. “Microgreens are nutrient-dense and super versatile,” according to Stephen. “People put them on eggs, soups, sandwiches or even eat them like popcorn.”

In addition to CSA subscriptions, Stephen is launching an online store to make shopping even more convenient. “It’s for people who aren’t ready to commit to a membership. They’ll be able to order what they want, when they want it, and pick up their order at the farm on Fridays.”

One of the farm’s most anticipated annual events is its certified organic plant sale, now entering its third year. The sale takes place over two weekends each May and is widely promoted on Facebook.

“I sell as many plants as I can grow. People like the idea of getting their starts from a local nursery,” Stephen said, “and the sale provides a nice revenue boost for us at the beginning of the season.”

Beyond feeding customers, Stephen is also committed to educating them. During winter months, he offers garden coaching sessions to CSA members and locals in the greater Dayton area who are planning their own growing spaces. These sessions are customized to each person’s goals and needs.

“I help them with sourcing materials, planning out permanent beds and raised beds, choosing soil amendments and compost, whatever it takes to set up their garden for success,” he explained. “It’s just another way we’re trying to share what we’ve learned.”

As Green Table Gardens continues to grow, so too does Stephen’s vision for what it could become. One of his biggest goals is to partner with other local producers to offer a broader range of goods.

“I like the idea of people being able to buy my veggies while also being able to get fresh bread, local beef or dairy products,” he said. “It would make for a much more convenient shopping experience.”

To that end, Stephen also plans to host workshops onsite at the farm, beginning with a class focused on efficient systems in market gardening. “We’ll cover what works, what doesn’t and how people can build a business model that fits their situation. It’s a really hands-on deep dive into successful systems. Market gardening can be a great way to get into agriculture and this helps people get off on the right foot.”

Whether it’s through a CSA share, a handful of microgreens or a one-on-one coaching session, Stephen’s goal remains the same: to help people connect more deeply with their food and where it comes from. While Green Table Gardens may still be young, the foundation is strong – and growing stronger every season.

“I’ve learned so much from working with others, and I always enjoy chatting with people who are getting into growing,” Stephen said. “If someone out there is thinking about starting a garden, or wants to learn more about local food, I’d love for them to reach out. Instagram and Facebook are the best ways to reach me!”

For more information visit GreenTableGardens.com or facebook.com/GreenTableGardens.