Vegetable farming is a very lucrative business you can venture into even though it has its challenges but notwithstanding it is promising.
Gone are the days when farming was only associated with one’s level of education and financial status. But now, the narrative has changed. If you truly want a futuristic occupation, try farming.
What vegetable farming requires from you is dedication and the utmost willingness to learn fast for it to flourish.
Before you start the vegetable business, you must know your target customers. As a beginner, you may decide to start from your neighbourhood and subsequently, move to a larger scale.
You only need a small space to start; it can be within or at the back of your compound. You need to make sure your soil is fertile; test it by digging a hole then pour water inside; if it drains very well you can go ahead with the soil.
You can go digital. Start with your mobile phone and post videos and pictures of the process. Anyone interested can reach out to you. You can package it in a transparent small nylon bag.
You can target students, supermarkets, restaurants and caterers as a beginner. One thing must be certain, you must be constant because this set of people do not like disappointment.
Don’t start with too many vegetables. You can start with jute leaf (ewedu), green, and pepper. Dry the seeds well before planting. You will need up to N20,000 to start your vegetable business.
Remember that Vegetables require adequate sunlight; due to this, you must choose a location within your backyard or garden that always has direct sunlight.
Organic manure helps the growth of vegetables and use pesticides when necessary.
Vegetables demand you have access to water; it is very important. You will need tools such as a watering can, rake, hoe and trowel to get started.
Always remove weeds- unwanted plants from your farm. They hinder the growth of farm produce.
You must promote your business before full production because it is not something you can keep; it easily gets spoilt.
You can use a container, sack and plastic bucket.
Finally, It is good you explore both traditional and digital ways of marketing. As vegetable farming is concerned, it is one of the easiest in agriculture; just make sure you have the zeal for it.