Fruit FAQ
Is your fruit organically grown?
We prioritize organic methods whenever feasible. Over the past two decades, we’ve diligently enhanced our soil health through practices like high calcium applications, limited use of commercial fertilizers, incorporation of manure and green manure, cover cropping, and the application of foliar sprays such as “Growers Mineral Solutions”and “Vitanal”. Soil health and nutrition is at the core of our approach.
For plant protection, we utilize biological controls like pheromone technology where applicable and employ organic solutions like pyrethrin, hydrogen peroxide, and other organically-approved sprays. While we strive for organic solutions, there are certain challenges like black knot in plums and some insects for which we are currently without viable organic options. In these specific cases, we resort to commercial non-organic sprays. However, we do not use glyphosates. We also do not employ pre-pick sprays, and we do not wash, wax, or use post-harvest fungicidal treatments.
We are constantly searching for the best and most sustainable solutions in growing healthy and nutritional fruit for our environmentally-conscious customers.
Where can I buy your fruit?
When in season, you can find our fruit at our fruit market and various markets and stands across Ontario, including:
Brookfront Farm Store – 2053 Bridge St., New Dundee; 1-519-696-2637; www.brookfrontfarms.com
Sideroad Farm Store – Amy and Patrick Kitchen – 805092 Sideroad 25, RR3, Markdale, ON, N0C1H0; 705.446.5503; www.sideroadfarm.com
Eat Local Muskoka – Colin Sober-Williams – 705.380.6936; www.eatlocalmuskoka.ca
TLC Animal Husbandry Inc – Michael & Phyllis Freiesleben – mpfruit2008@hotmail.com or 1- 519-327-8060 – pre-orders only
Fruition in Guelph – Jackie Keenan – fruitionguelph@gmail.com – pre-orders only
Ontario Fruit Lovers – Laurie LeMay – Locations King City, Newmarket, Moondance Organics (Angus) and Barrie – 1.705.331.4594 or ontariofruitlovers@gmail.com
Michael Smidt in Durham with locations at the Village Market in Thornhill at the Toronto Farmers Market. All pick ups at the farm must be pre-ordered.
When is your apple cider available and what is in it?
In late fall, we offer our signature apple cider, crafted from a diverse blend of apples. This selection includes fresh-eating varieties like Liberty and Florina, along with columnar apples and a generous twenty percent of red-fleshed apples. This unique combination results in a rich, complex flavor and a vibrant, beautiful color. Notably, the Red Love Calypso apples, with their red flesh, contribute to high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants in our cider. Our cider is quickly pasteurized and boasts convenient storage capabilities
Garden Roses
Why are you stopping rose production in 2025?
As a small family-owned and operated business, we have decided to focus on the primary aspect of our business: fruit production. While wild theories may arise, the truth is simple—we are all getting older and have decided to end this wonderful journey on a positive note.
How is your warranty affected in the last sales year of 2025?
Our warranty remains unchanged: We guarantee our plants to be true to name, healthy, and viable when they leave our premises. If our planting and care instructions are followed, we ensure they will thrive during the first growing season. Should any issues arise, we’re happy to offer a refund. Please note that all warranty claims must be submitted by August 30th of the shipping/pick-up year.
Additionally, our customer support and rose advice services will conclude with the closing of our garden centre in September, 2025.
Cut Roses FAQ
When are your cut roses available?
In line with our ecological commitment, our cut roses are grown in outdoor fields. These cut roses are available from mid-June, with the season ending in the first week of September. We have learned through experience that the cool, wet nights of autumn can affect the consistency of our blooms. Moreover, it’s essential for the roses to naturally slow down, preparing them for the Canadian winter ahead.
Do you ship your cut roses?
Currently, we do not offer shipping for cut roses.
Where are you cut roses available?
You can purchase our cut roses at our shop in Niagara-on-the-Lake. For larger volumes, you’ll find them at the Ontario Flower Grower Auction in Mississauga under grower number 434.
Do you work with florists, brides, or BnB's?
We warmly welcome all customers. Please be aware that our focus is exclusively on selling cut roses, and we do not provide any other floral services.
Do you take pre-orders?
All pre-orders are welcome. Please know that we cannot confirm orders.
We gladly accept all pre-orders, but please be aware that we cannot confirm orders until approximately 5 days prior to the desired pick-up date. Rose bloom availability can be affected by various factors like weather conditions (heat, rain, hail), which are beyond our control.
Our policy is first come, first served. To secure a specific rose you desire, we recommend placing your order promptly to ensure availability.
What cultivars do you carry?
All cultivars are listed on our website, but please note that a few are available in very limited quantities.
General FAQ
Do you offer farm tours?
We do not currently offer tours of our farm.
How do I obtain a gift certificate?
While our website doesn’t have the functionality for gift certificates, we’re here to assist you. Please feel free to reach out to us by phone or email at sales@palatineroses.com, and we’ll be happy to help you with gift certificates.