Laura Ingalls Wilder & Stark Bro's Connected History

Stark Bro's & Laura Ingalls Wilder, the author of the beloved Little House on the Prairie book series, have a 100+ year-old connected history.

Our connection began when Almanzo & Laura purchased a property in Southern Missouri with an existing lien that was placed for the 1,000 Stark Bro's apple trees on the property, many of which were planted in nursery rows. The trees went on to flourish in their care and were mentioned on numerous occasions in the books.

Now a century later we visited the Rocky Ridge farm, in Mansfield, MO. After touring the beautiful property we planted Ben Davis Apple trees, the same variety that Almanzo once cared for himself. We even planted in the same manner, with wood ash.

Be sure to check on the trees for us at your next visit to the Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home and Museum.

Watch and learn how Almanzo and Laura kept their apple orchard thriving so long ago, and see what simple but effective methods we can still use today!

Find out more about Laura's home and museum in Mansfield, MO: https://lauraingallswilderhome.com/

Article Categories:

Latest Articles

The Healing Power of Your Garden: Growing Plants for Apothecary and Wellness Apothecary plants and jars on table in garden
The Healing Power of Your Garden: Growing Plants for Apothecary and Wellness In recent years, there’s been a resurgence in interest around natural remedies and herbalism, with many people turning to their gardens to grow the plants they need to make homemade tinctures, teas, and even salves. At Stark Bro’s, we’ve always believed in the power of plants—not just for their beauty, but for their health benefits as well.
Why You Can’t Eat Raw Elderberries (and How to Enjoy Them Safely) Basket of Elderberries
Why You Can’t Eat Raw Elderberries (and How to Enjoy Them Safely) Elderberries are a powerhouse fruit—packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and immune-boosting properties. They’re a favorite for homemade jams, syrups, and even wine. But if you’re growing elderberries for the first time, you may be surprised to learn that you shouldn’t eat elderberries raw right off the bush.
When to Pick Asian Pears: Harvesting Tips for Crisp, Juicy Fruit Picking an Asian Pear
When to Pick Asian Pears: Harvesting Tips for Crisp, Juicy Fruit Asian pears are a favorite among home orchard growers for their crisp texture, refreshing sweetness, and long storage life. But unlike European pears, which are often harvested firm and ripened indoors, Asian pears ripen fully on the tree. Knowing exactly when to pick Asian pears is the key to enjoying them at their very best.
Summer Raspberry Pruning Tips with Matt Lebon of The Foodscaper Prune summer raspberries
Summer Raspberry Pruning Tips with Matt Lebon of The Foodscaper In this helpful walk-through video, Matt joins the Stark Bro’s team to show exactly how to prune raspberry plants during the summer months, explain what to cut (and what not to), and share some pro tips for maximizing fruit production while keeping your patch tidy.
Backyard Orchard Tour: Growing Fruit in Small Spaces with Stark Bro’s Team Member Katie B Garden Tour
Backyard Orchard Tour: Growing Fruit in Small Spaces with Stark Bro’s Team Member Katie B If you’ve ever wondered whether you can grow fruit trees or berries in a small backyard, Stark Bro’s team member Katie B is here to show you it’s absolutely possible — and incredibly rewarding. In her St. Louis suburban home, Katie has transformed her backyard and side yard into a productive, thriving garden filled with fruit trees, berry plants, and even backyard quail.
How To Prune Grapes - Summer Care Article image
How To Prune Grapes - Summer Care Summer pruning helps control vigorous growth, improve fruit quality, and keep your grapevines healthy and productive throughout the growing season.
How to Make Redbud Jelly Redbud jelly
How to Make Redbud Jelly Learn how to make redbud jelly from edible redbud tree blossoms with this easy small-batch recipe.
Winter Preparation for Fig Trees: Cutting Back and Mulching Article image
Winter Preparation for Fig Trees: Cutting Back and Mulching Fig trees are beloved for their sweet fruit, but they can be sensitive to freezing temperatures, especially in colder climates. Proper winter preparation ensures the tree survives the harsh weather and grows back vigorously in the spring. One effective method involves cutting back the branches and insulating the tree base with mulch. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Indoor Gardening with Purpose: Fresh Ingredients Year-Round Planting in pots indoors
Indoor Gardening with Purpose: Fresh Ingredients Year-Round Imagine walking into your home and being greeted by the vibrant greenery of your very own indoor garden. With aromatic herbs, fresh ingredients, and even small fruiting plants, indoor gardening can turn any space into a productive and inviting haven. Whether you’re looking to save on grocery costs, enjoy a steady supply of organic produce, or simply find joy in gardening throughout the year, growing indoors is a rewarding way to make the most of your space.
House Plants: Benefits, Top Picks, and Care Tips Article image
House Plants: Benefits, Top Picks, and Care Tips House plants aren’t just for looks—they’re living companions that enhance our homes! Whether you're a plant mom or plant dad who wants to bring nature inside, house plants offer health benefits, create calming atmospheres, and add charm to every room. Let’s dive into the many ways house plants can enhance your well-being and explore the best plant options for your lighting conditions.
Subscribe to Stark Bro's e-newsletters
Get to know your zone! Try the new Stark Bro's Hardiness Zone Finder