Jorge's Organics

Growing up in Guatemala, Jorge Alva helped his parents grow corn, soybeans, and many other vegetables.

He spent his teenage years working his family farm in the mornings and attending school in the afternoons. This early exposure to working the soil was the impetus to the passion he has now for organic farming.

After moving to the United states, Jorge worked a couple of different jobs and in 2005 got the opportunity to work for the Maharishi Word Peace Organics. He loved working and learning about organic produce and started growing on his own and has never stopped.

"I worked for the Maharishi World Peace Organics from 2005 until they closed."

Jorge said.

"I learned the important factors of growing organically, and the importance of all it takes to make the plants grow."

After Maharishi World Peace Organics closed, Jorge was faced with what to do next.

"I knew I wanted to start my own business, but I never thought about taking over the Greenhouses."

Jorge and his family started a small lawn and landscaping business in 2015 and in 2019 they got the opportunity to lease the greenhouses they currently operate in Fairfield, and Jorge’s Orgnics was borns.

"With the support of my family and close relatives and friends, and community I have managed to run both of the businesses around Fairfield."

Though Jorge’s organic bears his name, Jorge is quick to point out how his whole family helps make their businesses.

"Both my wife Maribel Alva and I are full time at the greenhouses, my son Jenelson goes to school in Iowa city and works at the greenhouse through the summer doing deliveries."

In addition to his sweet corn you will see at the Co-op, Jorge stays busy growing a variety of produce.

When asked about what he likes best about what he does, Jorge’s answer was clear:

"The best part of what I do is that I enjoy every bit of what I do. I like to work in the soil, seeding, taking care of plants, harvesting…but the best part is enjoying a fresh healthy meal."