Dietz Produce

In the 1960s, the Dietz family started the Dietz Produce farmstand. Mr. Myron Dietz, a full-time school teacher, spent his free summers growing fresh produce with his wife Lois, and they began selling their home-grown fruits and vegetables along the roadside. This is the same stand in which they sell their produce today. Over time, Myron's son David gradually took over management of the produce business.
        
About six years ago, Dietz Produce stopped using most chemicals and non-organic pesticides on their produce, although they have chosen not to pursue organic certification. They made the switch because they didn’t like the idea of poisoning the environment or their fresh produce. The chemicals that they use today are certified organic.

This switch to a healthier form of farming has had a positive impact for the business. More people are becoming aware of the dangers of pesticides, both to their health and to the environment. The Dietz Produce Stand is the only organic produce stand in the York Central Market.

Not using chemicals has presented a few challenges for the Dietz family. They have more weeds than they used to, but they have been able to control the pests through natural methods. One crop they were especially worried about was the cantaloupes, which can be killed by a virus spread by cucumber beetles. However, the cantaloupes are doing just as well, if not better, than before without any chemicals.

Dave Dietz admits that the best part of his job is meeting and talking with customers. He considers himself lucky to meet people who care about their food and supporting local businesses. Also, he enjoys being outside and feeling in touch with the environment. He takes pleasure in seeing the change in the environment as the seasons change.

In addition to fresh produce, the stand in the York Central Market features a selection of fair-trade coffees, teas, and chocolate. Mr. Dietz believes that small businesses should support each other, even if they are on different sides of the world.

The Dietz Produce Stand at the York Central Market House operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 8 am to 2 pm. Their roadside stand is open in the summer, Monday through Saturday, from 9 am to 5 pm. This stand is located on PA Route 462, 1.1 miles west of the Cool Creek Road traffic light at Wrightsville.

Be sure to stop by either of the Dietz Produce Stands and try some delicious produce, while supporting a great local business.