A Thriving Industry: A Look Inside Missouri’s Largest Marijuana Farm
In the heart of Missouri, a once-illicit industry has blossomed into a billion-dollar business. As harvest season arrives, a visit to one of the state’s largest marijuana farms provides a glimpse into the intricate process of cultivating and bringing this lucrative crop to market.
Derek Mayfield is one of the key players at Honey Green, a state-licensed marijuana cultivator in Joplin. As the fertigation lead, he takes pride in his work, which involves delivering the perfect amount of nutrients to each plant to optimize its growth. Mayfield’s passion for his job is evident, and he finds fulfillment in the results of his labor.
“I’ve wanted to do this since I was a teenager,” Mayfield said, beaming with enthusiasm. “It’s very rewarding, especially when we have a beautiful harvest.”
The seven-acre farm is home to over 3,000 organically grown plants, which will require hours of labor to harvest over the next few weeks. As the team works tirelessly to bring in the crop, Mayfield’s dedication to his craft is evident. His love for his job is contagious, making it clear that he wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.
