Grow and sell vegetables for fun and profit.
Grow and sell vegetables and produce for fun, personal enjoyment and even for a little extra cash. Locally produced vegetables are quickly becoming the preferred source for discerning and conscientious consumers. The USDA reports that between 1994 and 2009 the number of operating farmers' markets more than tripled. Take advantage of this trend in your community. Become a successful vegetable producer with a little know-how and hard work---just don't be afraid to get your hands dirty. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Research your local market. Find out what other farmers grow, and where and how they sell it. Pay attention to what they charge. Go to local farmers' markets and to the produce section of the grocery store. Make a list of products you can offer that are better or less expensive, and take note of vegetables with a high demand that the local market is not filling. Talk to other local growers and get to know them. Ask questions to discover why they are successful. Small farmers are usually happy to talk about their experience.
2. Choose what you would like to grow. Most small farmers specialize in one or two vegetables and become experts on those crops. Settle on an interesting and profitable niche. Visit your local library and county extension service to conduct research. Certain vegetables grow differently or not at all in some areas; overcome this issue by selecting a product proven to grow well in your region. For example, broccoli and spinach require long, cool growing seasons. If you live in a region with long, hot summers, consider a different type of vegetable, or select a breed of broccoli or spinach specifically categorized for heat resistance. Ask your seed or starter provider what plants grow best in your area.
3. Study and become an expert on your selected vegetable. Learn about the different strains available, such as hybrids, heirlooms and open-pollinated varieties. Understand the growing season for your vegetable, and know when to plant and harvest in your area. Familiarize yourself with the types of soil, nutrients sunlight and water conditions necessary to produce the best harvest. Ensure that you have enough land and the right conditions and equipment to make your enterprise work. Do not scrimp on educating yourself; knowledge of your chosen produce pays dividends in the long run.
4. Plant, tend and harvest your produce based on what you learned while researching. Small-scale farming requires your daily attention; stick to a schedule of weeding, watering, fertilizing, pruning and harvesting. Monitor your crop to ensure that it remains pest free. Avoid pesticides and artificial fertilizer if you seek an "organic" label. Instead, use natural pesticides such as beneficial insects and chemical-free fertilizer.
5. Sell your produce as quickly as possible to keep it fresh. Many options exist besides carting your vegetables to the farmers' market. Put up a large sign offering to let customers pick their own produce, or set up a roadside stand next to your garden. These methods allow customers to see exactly where the produce comes from and ensure that the vegetables remain at optimal freshness. If you don't have a lot of traffic in your area, create a booth in a high-traffic area of town, or go directly to the farmers' market. Keep your produce shaded and your display attractive. If possible, make a list of regular customers so you can sell directly to them in the future.
Tags: your area, your produce, broccoli spinach, farmers market, farmers markets