“I would like to know, if I’m starting a vegetable crop farm, how much crops advised for 6 hectares of land? Or how do farmers calculate such? As well, please do add in any information a new farmer should keep in hand. And if starting with seeds or seedlings is advisable. And lastly, would you possibly assist with where or how can I distribute/sell vegetables to either retailers or other organizations after”.
Hi ***
The last question – how to distribute/sell vegetables to either retailers or other organizations – is the most important one. If there isn’t a market for something you will waste your time and energy producing it. Our Marketing page raises important questions and things to consider.
Although the horticultural marketing extension document mentioned under the last heading was done 20 years ago, the steps it sets out still remain relevant. Page 5, for example, sets out ideas of possible markets (neighbours, local market, processors, hawkers etc). The document asks questions which will be useful in guiding you about your town and environment.
See also the notes about processing and value-added activities (page 6, 7): African niche products using indigenous foods, sun drying, bottling (achar and chutneys), jams. Cedara, between Hilton and Howick, provides training in growing vegetables and doing processing. See www.kzndard.gov.za/short-courses. Processing isn’t listed there but I know they have done this in the past.
The technical issues around how much crops for 6 hectares, seeds vs seedlings and such can be answered by the person from whom you get your seeds. McDonald Seeds in Pietermaritzburg would be a good choice. The two ARC guidelines, Production Guideline for summer vegetables and Production Guideline for winter vegetables (see under “Websites and publications” heading at https://agribook.co.za/horticulture/vegetables also contain this sort of information. These documents are both hyperlinked and so can be downloaded free of charge. All the grower guides by the Department of Agriculture are also hyperlinked on this page and can be consulted.
So, a fair amount of preparation work to be done but it is an exciting venture and we hope the best for you!
