Hobby farms start as just that—hobbies. However, as with many hobbies, there’s plenty of opportunity to make a little extra cash with your agricultural pastime. Have you been giving away your excess eggs or vegetables to neighbors? Are you looking for a way to try something new with your modest backyard farm? Do you simply enjoy spending your Saturdays at the farmers’ market? All of these are excellent reasons to make a small business out of your farm. To help you along the way, we’ve created a guide on how to make money from your hobby farm.
Get Creative with Your Land
Growing vegetables or raising chickens are common small farm endeavors, but they’re not the only ways to make money from your hobby farm. If you want to make your operation more lucrative, consider trying your hand at something new. Install an apiary, raise fish, or rent your land to campers. You can also get a little experimental with the plants in your garden. Mastering the crops and livestock you already have is important, but trying something new keeps your farm fresh and exciting. Besides, you never know when you’re going to stumble across your next financial success.
Be Smart with Your Supplies
As with any other business, you need to make sure you don’t spend more money than you make. Be smart when shopping for supplies and services. Try to pick up handy new skills so that you can build coops, repair fencing, or fix equipment by yourself. If you come across a job you can’t do on your own, find a regular, trusted business or contractor on whom you know you can always rely. When it comes to purchasing supplies or equipment, make cost-effective decisions. Purchase milk bottles, honey jars, and other packaging supplies used, in bulk, and from reliable sources. See if you can fix broken tools before replacing them. Little habits such as these will help you save money throughout your entire operation, increasing your overall profits.
Rely on Your Community
Hobby farms are often staples in their communities. Whether you’re looking for workers or supporters, you’re sure to find them right in your hometown. Enlist neighborhood kids or teenagers to help with regular chores such as weeding the garden or collecting eggs. See if any local businesses can sell your products or provide repairs and other necessary services. Become a regular member of your local farmers’ market. By participating in your community, you can build a loyal, local customer base for yourself and your new business.
