Growing vegetables for sale has long been part of the country scene. These days, urban dwellers are seeking a cut of the profit, too, especially with the heightening popularity of naturally grown foods. You can earn a good income on as little as one acre of land, whether you lease, own or rent. Or you can plant in a city greenbelt or community plot. But even if you have the green knack, you must preplan. Does this Spark an idea?
Major Decisions
Two major decisions will influence each other: what to grow and your market. Study both well. Either you can grow a wide range of vegetables, as you might for your family, only more of each vegetable, or you can grow a lot of a few kinds. If you think your market will be local people coming to you weekly, grow a wide variety. Otherwise target a few kinds for sale at farmers markets or to groceries, restaurants or other institutions. Outlets such as hospitals are buying natural foods for patients' menus. The amount you produce will be limited by the amount and type of your land.
A decision to grow naturally will determine how you maintain your crops and will affect marketing. Regardless of your approach, decide in advance on how you will control weeds, pests and diseases.
Soil and Climate
Choose vegetables based on soil and climate. Some soil might be too hilly or require extensive additives. And some vegetables do best in a particular soil; for example, potatoes like deep, well-drained sandy or silty loam. Use a soil testing kit and especially watch the pH value, the acid/alkaline content. Vegetables grow best with pH of 6.5 or 7.You can prepare your soil if, for example, it is too acidic, but the methods may be limited if you're gardening naturally.
Consider the factor of climate. Tomatoes, for instance, grow best in sunny, warm conditions. Also, you need to know the length of your growing season and when to harvest. You might want to invest in mechanical gardening aids.
Plants and Seeds
Some plants, such as tomatoes, require a lengthy growing period. Get a head start by using plants instead of seeds, unless you have a greenhouse or access to one. Always buy quality plants or seeds and avoid discount items found in variety stores. Start with crops that are easy to grow--for example, lettuce or onions--to gain experience. Then try others, such as tomatoes, and learn the best growing methods.
Plans and Plots
Keep in mind that vegetables need sunny, open spaces to thrive. Although grouping vegetables in beds is now common for family gardens, traditional row planting is still recommended for commercial plots. Till the soil prior to planting, and plan in advance the location and amount of each vegetable. Plant short-season varieties continuously throughout the season to avoid having too much all at once of one or two kinds.
Maintenance
Hoe regularly, rake out dead weeds and water consistently; you may need a soaker hose. Rotate crops to help control disease and preserve soil nutrients.
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