Directory

Heinän puutarha in Salo is Finland's largest chilli producer. A family business in operation since 1999, Heinän today grows over 50 different varieties of chilis, ranging from the very mild to extremely hot – as well as varieties of bell peppers. On site the chilis are dried, processed and made into premium spice mixes and a number of others spicy products such as their signature chili chocolate.

Kaiteki Sienet brings together professionals from around the world to cultivate some of Finland’s finest organic mushrooms. Founded by true culinary enthusiasts Juha, Ying, and Peng, the mushroom farm is driven by a love of bold flavours and thoughtful growing practices. They currently grow organic Japanese shiitake, oyster mushrooms, and lion’s mane for both culinary and medicinal use. The mushrooms are cultivated on locally sourced Finnish birch and organic wheat. After harvest, the growing medium is composted and returned to the land, supporting local crop production and closing the loop.

Saloniemen Juustola in Laitila, run by Riitta and Jouni Saloniemi since 1998, has grown from a small herd of goats into a full-scale organic creamery. Today they produce award-winning cheeses and yogurts, as well as some natural cosmetics. Over the years the farm has also introduced Finncattle and a few workhorses, and Riitta is even considering adding sheep. “As long as the heart beats and tells us to keep going, we will,” she says.

Sanna Reponen is a small-scale organic farmer in Sulkava, growing garlic across almost her entire 500 square meter plot. She also produces small amounts of oats and feed for a neighbouring organic dairy farm. Her garlic is highly sought after, often sold out before the next season even begins. Sanna keeps a low profile online and on social media, earning her the mysterious nickname “the invisible farmer.”