strawberry farming business plan

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[Pdf Sample] Business Plan Guide For Strawberry Farming Docx

In this article, we will explore the key aspects of a strawberry farming business plan and how to develop a comprehensive plan for your strawberry farm. Whether you are a new farmer looking to start a strawberry farm or an existing farmer seeking to expand your operations, having a well-defined business plan is essential for success.

We will cover various sections of a business plan that can help you outline your goals, strategies, financial projections, and more. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of what it takes to create a successful strawberry farming business plan.

[Pdf Sample] Strawberry Farming Business Plan Proposal Docx

Table of Contents

Executive Summary

The executive summary provides an overview of your strawberry farming business plan. It should include a brief introduction to your business, its goals, target market, competitive advantages, and financial projections. This section serves as a snapshot of your entire business plan and should entice readers to explore further.

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Business Overview

In this section, you will delve deeper into the details of your strawberry farming business. Describe the history and background of your farm, your mission and vision statements, and the legal structure of your business. Include information about your location, land size, and facilities. Explain why you chose strawberry farming as your business and highlight any unique selling points.

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Market Analysis

Conduct a thorough market analysis to understand the demand for strawberries in your target market. Identify your target customers, such as retailers, wholesalers, or individual consumers. Analyze market trends, competition, and consumer preferences. This analysis will help you develop effective marketing and sales strategies later in the plan.

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Farming Operations

Outline the farming operations involved in growing strawberries. Describe the variety of strawberries you plan to cultivate, the required land preparation, planting methods, irrigation systems, and pest and disease management strategies. Discuss the expected yield and harvesting techniques. Include details about the equipment, tools, and machinery needed for efficient farming operations.

Read Also:  [Beginners Guide] How To Grow Strawberries in Singapore

Marketing and Sales Strategies

This section focuses on how you will promote and sell your strawberries. Identify your unique selling proposition (USP) and positioning in the market. Outline your pricing strategy, distribution channels, and plans for branding and packaging. Discuss how you will leverage online platforms, local markets, and potential partnerships to reach your target customers effectively.

Watch This Video On How To Start Strawberry Farming Business

Financial Projections

Provide a comprehensive financial outlook for your strawberry farming business. Include projected revenue, expenses, and profitability for the next three to five years. Factor in costs related to land acquisition, infrastructure development, labor, inputs, marketing, and distribution. Create realistic financial projections based on market research and industry benchmarks.

Risk Assessment

Evaluate the potential risks and challenges that may affect your strawberry farming business. Identify both internal and external risks, such as weather conditions, pests, diseases, and market fluctuations. Develop contingency plans to mitigate these risks and explain how you will adapt to unforeseen circumstances. Consider insurance options to protect your farm and investments.

Here Is The Download Link To Business Plan Proposal For Strawberry Farming By Agrolearner

How much land do I need to start a strawberry farm?

The land requirement for a strawberry farm depends on various factors such as the desired scale of operations, cultivation methods, and varieties grown. On average, a small-scale strawberry farm may require around 1-2 acres of land, while larger operations may need several acres.

Are there any specific climate requirements for strawberry farming?

Strawberries thrive in temperate climates with cool winters and mild summers. They prefer a growing season with temperatures ranging between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). However, specific varieties may have different climate preferences, so it’s essential to choose varieties suitable for your region.

How long does it take for strawberries to bear fruit?

After planting, strawberries generally take around 4-6 weeks to bear fruit. However, this timeline can vary depending on the variety, climate, and growing conditions. Some varieties may produce fruit earlier, while others may take slightly longer.

What are the common pests and diseases that affect strawberry plants?

Common pests that can affect strawberry plants include aphids, slugs, snails, and spider mites. Diseases such as powdery mildew, gray mold, and verticillium wilt can also pose challenges. Implementing proper pest and disease management strategies, including regular monitoring and appropriate treatments, can help mitigate these issues.

How can I market my strawberries effectively?

To market your strawberries effectively, consider a combination of strategies. This can include participating in local farmers’ markets, establishing partnerships with local grocery stores or restaurants, utilizing social media and online platforms, and offering pick-your-own or farm-to-table experiences. Creating a strong brand identity and emphasizing the quality and freshness of your strawberries can also help attract customers.

Creating a well-structured and comprehensive strawberry farming business plan is crucial for the success of your venture. It helps you clarify your goals, analyze the market, and develop effective strategies. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can create a professional business plan that showcases your expertise and attracts potential investors or lenders. Start planning today and lay a strong foundation for a thriving strawberry farming business.

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How to open a strawberry farm?

Are you keen to open a strawberry farm but don't know where to begin? Then you're in luck because this guide will lead you through all the steps required to check if your business idea can be profitable and, if so, turn it into a reality. 

Our guide is for prospective entrepreneurs who are thinking about starting a strawberry farm no matter how far they are in their journey - whether you’re just thinking about it or in the middle of market research this guide will be useful to you.

Think of this as your blueprint: we cover everything you need to know about opening a strawberry farm and what key decisions you’ll need to make along the way.

Ready? Let’s get started!

In this guide:

Understanding how a strawberry farm works

• Assembling your strawberry farm's founding team
• Conducting market research for a strawberry farm
• Choosing the right concept and positioning for your strawberry farm
• Deciding where to base your strawberry farm

Choosing your strawberry farm's legal form

• Calculating the budget to open a strawberry farm
• Creating a sales & marketing plan for your strawberry farm

Building your strawberry farm's financial forecast

• Finding a name and registering your strawberry farm
• Deciding upon the corporate identity of your strawberry farm
• Understanding the legal and regulatory steps involved in opening a strawberry farm

Writing a business plan for your strawberry farm

• Financing the launch of your strawberry farm

Launching your strawberry farm and monitoring progress against your forecast

Key takeaways.

The very first step when exploring a business idea such as starting a strawberry farm is to make sure you understand how the business operates and makes money (which is what we call the business model).

This will not only give you an initial idea of how profitable the business can be, but it will also enable you to make sure that this is the right business idea for you, given your skills, start-up capital and family or personal lifestyle, in particular.

The best ways to get to grips with the strawberry farm's business model are to:

Talk to strawberry farm owners with experience

Work a few months in a strawberry farm already in operation, take a training course.

Experienced strawberry farm owners have valuable insights and can provide practical advice based on their firsthand experiences. 

They've likely encountered and overcome challenges that a newcomer might not anticipate. Learning from other’s mistakes can save you both time and money and potentially increase your venture’s chances of succeeding.

Obtaining work experience in the industry can be a crucial factor in confirming whether you truly want to start a strawberry farm, as it provides insight into the day-to-day activities.

For instance, if the working hours are longer than expected or if other business requirements don't align with your personal lifestyle or preferences, you might reconsider your entrepreneurial goals.

Even if you've decided that this business idea is a good fit for you, gaining work experience will still be valuable. It helps you better understand your target market and customer needs, which is likely to be beneficial when launching your own strawberry farm.

Obtaining training within your chosen industry is another way to get a feel for how a strawberry farm works before deciding to pursue a new venture.

Whatever approach you choose to familiarise yourself with the business, before going any further with your plans to open a strawberry farm, make sure you understand:

• What skills are required to run the business (compare this with your own skills)
• What a typical week in the business is like (compare this with your personal or family life)
• What is the potential turnover of a strawberry farm and the long-term growth prospects (compare this with your level of ambition)
• Your options once you decide to sell the business or retire (it's never too early to consider your exit)

Create your business plan online!

Think your business idea could be profitable? Find out how with a business plan

Assemble your strawberry farm's founding team

The next step to start your strawberry farm is to think about the ideal founding team, or to go in alone (which is always an option).

Setting up a business with several partners is a way of reducing the (high) risk of launching a strawberry farm since it allows the financial risk of the project to be shared between the co-founders.

This also allows the company to benefit from a greater diversity of profiles in the management team and to spread the burden of decision-making over several shoulders.

But, running a business with multiple co-founders brings its own challenges. Disagreements between co-founders are quite common, and these can pose risks to the business. That's why it's crucial to consider all aspects before starting your business.

To make an informed decision, we suggest asking yourself these questions:

How many co-founders would increase the project's chances of success?

Do you and your potential partners share the same aspirations for the project, what is your plan b in case of failure.

Let's examine each of these questions in detail.

The answer to this question will depend on a number of factors, including:

• Your savings compared with the amount of initial capital needed to launch the strawberry farm
• The skills you have compared with those needed to make a success of such a project
• How you want key decisions to be taken in the business (an odd number of partners or a majority partner is generally recommended to avoid deadlock)

Put simply, your partners contribute money and/or skills, and increasing the number of partners is often a good idea when one of these resources is in short supply.

One of the key questions when selecting your potential partners will be their expectations. Do you want to create a small or large business? What are your ambitions for the next 10 or 15 years?

It's better to agree from the outset on what you want to create to avoid disagreements, and to check that you stay on the same wavelength as the project progresses to avoid frustration.

Of course, we wish you every success, but it's wise to have a plan B when setting up a business.

How you handle the possibility of things not working out can depend a lot on the kind of relationship you have with your co-founders (like being a close friend, spouse, former colleague, etc.) and each person's individual situation.

Take, for instance, launching a business with your spouse. It may seem like a great plan, but if the business doesn't succeed, you could find yourself losing the entire household income at once, and that could be quite a nerve-wracking situation.

Similarly, starting a business partnership with a friend has its challenges. If the business doesn't work out or if tough decisions need to be made, it could strain the friendship.

It's essential to carefully evaluate your options before starting up to ensure you're well-prepared for any potential outcomes.

Is there room for another strawberry farm on the market?

The next step in starting a strawberry farm is to undertake market research. Now, let's delve into what this entails.

The objectives of market research

The goal here is straightforward: evaluate the demand for your business and determine if there's an opportunity to be seized.

One of the key points of your market analysis will be to ensure that the market is not saturated by competing offers.

The market research to open your strawberry farm will also help you to define a concept and market positioning likely to appeal to your target clientele.

Finally, your analysis will provide you with the data you need to assess the revenue potential of your future business.

Let's take a look at how to carry out your market research.

Evaluating key trends in the sector

Market research for a strawberry farm usually begins with an analysis of the sector in order to develop a solid understanding of its key players, and recent trends.

Assessing the demand

After the sector analysis comes demand analysis. Demand for a strawberry farm refers to customers likely to consume the products and services offered by your company or its competitors.

Looking at the demand will enable you to gain insights into the desires and needs expressed by your future customers and their observed purchasing habits.

To be relevant, your demand analysis must be targeted to the geographic area(s) served by your company.

Your demand analysis should highlight the following points:

• Who buys the type of products and services you sell?
• How many potential customers are there in the geographical area(s) targeted by your company?
• What are their needs and expectations?
• What are their purchasing habits?
• How much do they spend on average?
• What are the main customer segments and their characteristics?
• How to communicate and promote the company's offer to reach each segment?

Analyzing demand helps pinpoint customer segments your strawberry farm could target and determines the products or services that will meet their expectations.

Assessing the supply

Once you have a clear vision of who your potential customers are and what they want, the next step is to look at your competitors.

Amongst other things, you’ll need to ask yourself:

• What brands are competing directly/indirectly against your strawberry farm?
• How many competitors are there in the market?
• Where are they located in relation to your company's location?
• What will be the balance of power between you and your competitors?
• What types of services and products do they offer? At what price?
• Are they targeting the same customers as you?
• How do they promote themselves? 
• Which concepts seem to appeal most to customers?
• Which competitors seem to be doing best?

The aim of your competitive analysis will be to identify who is likely to overshadow you, and to find a way to differentiate yourself (more on this see below).

Regulations

Market research is also an opportunity to look at the regulations and conditions required to do business.

Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you need a special degree to open a strawberry farm?
• Are there necessary licences or permits?
• What are the main laws applicable to your future business?

At this stage, your analysis of the regulations should be carried out at a high level, to familiarize yourself with any rules and procedures, and above all to ensure that you meet the necessary conditions for carrying out the activity before going any further.

You will have the opportunity to come back to the regulation afterwards with your lawyer when your project is at a more advanced stage.

Take stock of the lessons learned from your market analysis

Market research should give you a definitive idea of your business idea's chances of commercial success.

Ideally, the conclusion is that there is a market opportunity because one or more customer segments are currently underserved by the competition.

On the other hand, the conclusion may be that the market is already taken. In this case, don't panic: the first piece of good news is that you're not going to spend several years working hard on a project that has no chance of succeeding. The second is that there's no shortage of ideas out there: at The Business Plan Shop, we've identified over 1,300 business start-up ideas, so you're bound to find something that will work.

Don't start from scratch!

With dozens of business plan templates available, get a clear idea of what a complete business plan looks like

Choose the right concept and position your strawberry farm on the market

The next step to start a strawberry farm is to choose the company's market positioning.

Market positioning refers to the place your product and service offering occupies in customers' minds and how it differs from how competitors are perceived. Being perceived as a high-end solution, for example.

To do this, you need to take the following considerations into account:

How can you make your business stand out from your competitors?

Is it better to start a new strawberry farm or acquire one that is already up and running, how to make sure your concept meets customer needs.

Let's look at each of these in a little more detail.

When you decide to start your own strawberry farm, you're facing an upward challenge because your competitors are already ahead. They have a good reputation, loyal customers, and a strong team, while you're just getting started.

Opening a strawberry farm offering exactly the same thing as your competitors is risky and potentially doomed to fail: why would customers take the risk of choosing a newcomer rather than a company with a proven track record?

This is why it is advisable to avoid direct confrontation by adopting a differentiated market positioning wherever possible: in other words, by offering something different or complementary to what is available on the market.

To find a market positioning that has every chance of success, you need to ask yourself the following questions: 

• Can you negate direct competition by serving a customer profile that is currently poorly addressed by your competitors?
• Can your business provide something different or complementary to what is already available on the market?
• Why will customers choose your strawberry farm over the competition? 
• How will your competitors react to your entry into their market?
• Is the market sufficiently large to allow you to set up a new independent business, or is it better to consider another avenue (see below)?

A way to benefit from a proven concept and reduce the risk of your project is to take over a strawberry farm. 

Buying a strawberry farm allows you to get a team, a customer base, and above all to preserve the balance on the market by avoiding creating a new player. For these reasons, taking over a business is a lot less risky than creating one from scratch.

Taking over a business also gives you greater freedom than franchising, because you have the freedom to change the positioning and operations of the business as you see fit.

However, as you can imagine, the cost of taking over a business is higher than that of opening a strawberry farm because you will have to finance the purchase.

Once you have decided on your concept and the market positioning of your future strawberry farm, you will need to check that it meets the needs, expectations and desires of your future customers.

To do this, you need to present it to some of your target customers to gather their impressions.

Where should I base my strawberry farm?

The next step in our guide on starting a strawberry farm involves making a key choice about where you want your business to be located.

Picking the ideal location for your business is like selecting the perfect canvas for a painting. Without it, your business might not showcase its true colors.

We recommend that you take the following factors into account when making your decision:

• Visibility and foot traffic: A strawberry farm would benefit from being located in an area with high visibility and foot traffic, as this would attract customers and help with marketing efforts.
• Climate and soil quality: As strawberries require specific climate and soil conditions to thrive, it is important for a strawberry farm to be located in an area with suitable weather and soil.
• Easy access to main roads: This criterion is important for both the transportation of strawberries to markets and for customers to easily access the farm.
• Space to grow: A strawberry farm needs ample space to grow and harvest the crops, so having enough land is crucial for the success of the business.

This list is not comprehensive and will have to be adjusted based on the details of your project. 

The parameters to be taken into account will also depend on whether you opt to rent premises or buy them. If you are a tenant, you will need to consider the conditions attached to the lease: duration, rent increase, renewal conditions, etc.

Lease agreements differ widely from country to country, so it's essential to review the terms that apply to your situation. Before putting pen to paper, consider having your lawyer look carefully at the lease.

The next step to open a strawberry farm is to choose the legal form of your business.

The legal form of a business simply means the legal structure it operates under. This structure outlines how the business is set up and defines its legal obligations and responsibilities.

Choosing the legal form for your strawberry farm is an important decision because this will affect your tax obligations, your personal exposure to risk, how decisions are made within the business, the sources of financing available to you, and the amount of paperwork and legal formalities, amongst other things.

The way you set up your business legally will impact your taxes and social contributions, both at a personal level (how much your income is taxed) and at the business level (how much the business's profits are taxed).

Your personal exposure to risk as a business owner also varies based on the legal form of your business. Certain legal forms have a legal personality (also called corporate personality), which means that the business obtains a legal entity which is separate from the owners and the people running it. To put it simply, if something goes wrong with a customer or competitor, for example, with a corporate personality the business gets sued, whereas without it is the entrepreneur personally.

Similarly, some legal forms benefit from limited liability. With limited liability, the maximum you can lose if the business fails is what you invested. Your personal assets are not at risk. However, not all structures protect you in such a way - some structures may expose your personal assets (for example, your creditors might try to go after your house if the business incurs debts and then goes under without being able to repay what it owed).

How decisions are made within the business is also influenced by the legal form of your strawberry farm, and so is the amount of paperwork and legal formalities: do you need to hold general assemblies, to produce annual accounts, to get the accounts audited, etc.

The legal form also influences what sources of financing are available to you. Raising capital from investors requires having a company set up, and they will expect limited liability and corporate personality.

It's important to note that the actual legal structures for businesses vary slightly from country to country . But deciding on the legal structure is usually quite straightforward once you know how many co-founders you'll have, whether you'll have employees, and the expected revenues for the business.

Also note that a good business idea will be viable whatever the legal form you choose. How businesses are taxed changes every year, therefore one cannot rely on specific tax benefits tied to a particular structure when deciding to go into business.

One easy way to proceed is to take note of the legal structures used by your top five competitors, and assume you're going with the most commonly chosen option. Once your idea is mature and you're prepared to formally register the business, you can validate this assumption with a lawyer and an accountant.

How much money do I need to start a strawberry farm?

To answer this key question, we first need to look at the resources you'll need to launch your strawberry farm and keep it running on a daily basis. Let's take a look at what that entails.

Since each venture is distinct, providing an average budget for starting a strawberry farm is impossible.

We strongly advise careful consideration when reading estimates on the web. It’s best to ask yourself the following questions:

• Is my project similar (location, concept, planned size, etc.)?
• Can I trust where this information is coming from?
• Is the data fresh or stale?

Your thinking behind the investments and human resources required to launch and operate the business will then enable you to cost each item and include them in your financial forecast (which we'll look at later in this guide).

Once complete, the forecast will give you a precise idea of the initial investment required and profitability potential for your business idea.

Startup costs and investments to start a strawberry farm

Let's start with the investments. To set up a strawberry farm, initial working capital and investments can include the following items:

• Land and Property: This includes the purchase of land for your strawberry farm, as well as any buildings or structures that need to be constructed, such as a greenhouse or storage shed.
• Irrigation System: As strawberries require consistent watering, investing in an irrigation system is crucial. This could include drip irrigation, sprinklers, or other types of watering methods.
• Equipment and Machinery: Running a successful strawberry farm requires specific equipment and machinery, such as tractors, plows, harvesters, and other tools. These are essential for planting, maintaining, and harvesting your strawberries.
• Cooling and Storage: Strawberries are highly perishable, so it's important to have proper cooling and storage facilities to preserve their freshness. This could include refrigeration units, coolers, and packaging materials.
• Fencing and Security: Protecting your strawberry farm from pests and theft is crucial. Investing in quality fencing and security measures, such as cameras or alarms, can help ensure the safety of your crops and equipment.

Of course, you will need to adapt this list to your company's specific needs.

Staffing requirements to operate a strawberry farm

You'll also need to think about the staff required to run the business on a day-to-day basis.

The human resources required will vary according to the size of your company.

Once again, this list is only indicative and will need to be adjusted according to the specifics of your strawberry farm.

Operating expenses of a strawberry farm

The final point to consider when analyzing the resources required is the question of operating costs.

Operating expenses for a strawberry farm may include:

• Staff costs: This includes the salaries and wages of all employees working on your strawberry farm, including farm managers, pickers, and packers.
• Accountancy fees: You will need to hire an accountant to help you manage your finances and file taxes for your strawberry farm.
• Insurance costs: It is important to have insurance coverage for your strawberry farm in case of any accidents, damages, or losses.
• Software licenses: You may need to purchase software licenses for accounting, inventory management, and other necessary tasks on your strawberry farm.
• Banking fees: You will incur fees for banking services such as deposits, withdrawals, and wire transfers for your strawberry farm.
• Seed and plant costs: This includes the cost of purchasing strawberry seeds or seedlings to grow on your farm.
• Fertilizer and pesticide costs: You will need to purchase fertilizers and pesticides to maintain the health and growth of your strawberry plants.
• Irrigation and water costs: You will need to pay for the water used to irrigate your strawberry plants, as well as any irrigation systems or equipment.
• Packaging and labeling costs: You will need to purchase packaging materials and labels for your strawberries to be sold in supermarkets or farmers' markets.
• Marketing and advertising costs: To promote your strawberry farm, you may need to invest in marketing and advertising efforts such as flyers, social media ads, or attending local events.
• Transportation costs: This includes the cost of transporting your strawberries from your farm to buyers or markets.
• Equipment and machinery maintenance costs: You will need to regularly maintain and repair any equipment and machinery used on your strawberry farm, such as tractors, harvesters, and refrigeration units.
• Utilities: You will need to pay for utilities such as electricity and gas used to power your farm operations.
• Rent or land costs: If you do not own the land your strawberry farm is on, you will need to pay rent or lease fees.
• Training and education costs: To stay updated on the latest farming techniques and practices, you may need to invest in training and education for yourself and your employees.

Here also, this list will need to be tailored to the specifics of your strawberry farm but should be a good starting point for your budget.

Create a sales & marketing plan for your strawberry farm

The next step to launching your strawberry farm is to think about the actions you need to take to promote your products and services and build customer loyalty.

Here, you'll be looking at the following issues:

• What is the best method to attract as many new customers as possible?
• How to build customer loyalty and spread word of mouth?
• What human and financial resources will be required to implement the planned actions?
• What level of sales can I expect to generate in return?

The precise sales and marketing levers to activate will depend on the size of your strawberry farm. But you could potentially leverage some of the initiatives below.

Besides your sales and marketing plan, your sales forecast will be affected by seasonal patterns related to the nature of your business, such as fluctuations during the holiday season, and your competitive landscape.

The next step to opening a strawberry farm is to create your financial forecast.

What is a strawberry farm financial forecast?

A strawberry farm financial forecast is a forward-looking tool that projects the financial performance of your business over a specific period (usually 3 years for start-ups). 

A forecast looks at your business finances in detail - from income to operating costs and investments - to evaluate its expected profitability and future cash flows.

Building a financial forecast enables you to determine the precise amount of initial financing required to start your strawberry farm.

There are many promising business ideas but very few are actually viable and making a financial forecast is the only way to ensure that your project holds up economically and financially.

Your financial forecast will also be part of your overall business plan (which we will detail in a later step), which is the document you will need to secure financing.

Financial forecasts are used to drive your strawberry farm and make key decisions, both in the pre and post-launch phases:

• Should we go ahead with the business or scrap the idea?
• Should we hire staff or use an external service provider?
• Which development project offers the best growth prospects?

Creating a financial forecast for starting a strawberry farm is an iterative process as you will need to refine your numbers as your business idea matures. 

As your strawberry farm grows, your forecasts will become more accurate. You will also need to test different scenarios to ensure that your business model holds true even if economic conditions deteriorate (lower sales than expected, difficulties in recruiting, sudden cost increases or equipment failure problems, for example).

Once you’ve launched your business, it will also be important to regularly compare your accounting data to your financial projections in order to keep your forecast up-to-date and maintain visibility on future cash flows.

What does a financial projection look like?

Your strawberry farm forecast will be presented using the following financial tables.

The projected P&L statement

The projected P&L statement for a strawberry farm shows how much revenue and profits your business is expected to generate in the future.

The projected balance sheet of your strawberry farm

Your strawberry farm's projected balance sheet provides a snapshot of your business’s financial position at year-end.

The cash flow forecast

A projected cash flow statement for a strawberry farm is used to show how much cash the business is expected to consume or generate in the years to come.

Which solution should you use to make a financial forecast for your strawberry farm?

The easiest and safest way to create your strawberry farm forecasts is to use an online financial forecasting software , like the one we offer at The Business Plan Shop.

There are several advantages to using professional software:

• You can easily create your financial forecast by letting the software take care of the financial calculations for you without errors
• You have access to complete financial forecast templates
• You get a complete financial forecast ready to be sent to your bank or investors
• The software helps you identify and correct any inconsistencies in your figures
• You can create scenarios to stress-test your forecast's main assumptions to stress-test the robustness of your business model
• After you start trading, you can easily track your actual financial performance against your financial forecast, and recalibrate your forecast to maintain visibility on your future cash flows
• You have a friendly support team on standby to assist you when you are stuck

If you are interested in this type of solution, you can try our forecasting software for free by signing up here .

How do I choose a name and register my strawberry farm?

Now that your project of launching a strawberry farm is starting to take shape, it's time to look at the name of your business.  

Finding the name itself is generally fairly easy. The difficulty lies in registering it.

To prevent this guide from being too long, we won't go into all the criteria you need to take into account when choosing a striking name for your strawberry farm. However, try to choose a name that is short and distinctive.

Once you have a name that you like, you need to check that it is available, because you cannot use a name that is identical or similar to that of a competitor: this type of parasitic behaviour is an act of unfair competition for which you risk being taken to court by your competitors.

To avoid any problems, you will need to check the availability of the name:

• Your country's company register
• With the trademark register
• With a domain name reservation company such as GoDaddy
• On an Internet search engine

If the desired name is available, you can start the registration process.

It is common to want to use the trading name as the name of the company, and to have a domain name and a registered trademark that also correspond to this name: Example ® (trading name protected by a registered trademark), Example LTD (legal name of the company), example.com (domain name used by the company).

The problem is that each of these names has to be registered with a different entity, and each entity has its own deadlines:

• Registering a domain name is immediate
• Registering a trademark usually takes at least 3 months (if your application is accepted)
• The time taken to register a new business depends on the country, but it's generally quite fast

How do I go about it?

Well, you have two choices:

• Complete all registrations at the same time and cross your fingers for a smooth process.
• Make sure to secure the domain names and trademarks. Once that's done, wait for confirmation of a successful trademark registration before moving on to register the company.

At The Business Plan Shop, we believe it's essential to prioritize securing your domain names and trademarks over the business name. This is because you have the flexibility to use a different trading name than your legal business name if needed. 

Regardless, we suggest discussing this matter with your lawyer (see below in this guide) before making any decisions.

What corporate identity do I want for my strawberry farm?

The following step to start a strawberry farm is to define your company's visual identity.

Visual identity is part of the DNA of your strawberry farm: it makes you recognizable and recognized by your customers, and helps you stand out from the competition. It also helps convey your values, notably through the choice of colors that identify the company. 

Creating your business's visual identity yourself is entirely possible: there are several online tools that let you generate color palettes, choose typography and even generate logos.

However, we advise you to delegate this task to a designer or a communications agency for a professional result.

Your corporate identity will include the following elements: 

• Your business logo 
• Your brand guidelines
• Your business cards
• Design and theme of your website

Your strawberry farm's logo serves as a quick identifier for your company. It will be featured on all your communication platforms (website, social networks, business cards, etc.) and official documents (invoices, contracts, etc.).

Beyond its appearance, your logo should be easy to use on any type of support and background (white, black, gray, colored, etc.). Ideally, it should be easy to use in a variety of colors.

Brand guidelines

One of the challenges when starting a strawberry farm is to ensure a consistent brand image wherever your company is visible.

This is the role of your company's brand guidelines, which defines the typography and colors used by your brand and thus acts as the protector of your brand image.

Typography refers to the fonts used (family and size). For example, Trebuchet in size 22 for your titles and Times New Roman in size 13 for your texts.

The colors chosen to represent your brand should typically be limited to five (or fewer):

• The main colour, 
• A secondary colour (the accent),
• A dark background colour (blue or black),
• A grey background colour (to vary from white),
• Possibly another secondary colour.

Business cards

Classic but a must-have, your business cards will be at your side to help you easily communicate your contact details to your founders, customers, suppliers, recruitment candidates, etc.

In essence, they should feature your logo and adhere to the brand guidelines mentioned earlier.

Website theme

Likewise, the theme of your strawberry farm website will integrate your logo and follow the brand guidelines we talked about earlier.

This will also define the look and feel of all your site's graphic elements:

What legal steps are needed to start a strawberry farm?

The next step in opening a strawberry farm is to look in detail at the legal and regulatory formalities.

Although it is possible to do the formalities yourself and draft some of the documents detailed here, The Business Plan Shop recommends that you seek advice on these aspects from a law firm.

Registering a trademark and protecting the intellectual property of your strawberry farm

One of the first things you need to do here is to protect your company's current and future intellectual property.

One way of doing this is to register a trade mark, as mentioned earlier in this guide. Your lawyer will be in a position to do the formalities for you and to help you select the classes (economic activities) and jurisdictions in which you have an interest in obtaining protection.

Your law firm can also advise you on other ways of protecting your company's intellectual property.

Preparing the legal documents for your strawberry farm

Your strawberry farm will need a set of legal and contractual documents to operate on a daily basis. 

Your exact needs in this respect will depend on the country in which you are launching your strawberry farm and the size and legal form envisaged for the company. Once again, we highly recommend having these documents prepared by your lawyer.

As a minimum, we recommend that you have the following documents prepared: 

• Employment contracts 
• General terms and conditions of sale
• General terms and conditions of use for your website
• Privacy Policy for your website
• Cookie Policy for your website

Applying for licences and permits and registering for various taxes

Here too, the list of licences and business permits required for your business to operate legally will depend on the country in which you have decided to start your strawberry farm.

Your law firm will be able to advise you on all the regulations applicable to your business.

Likewise, your accountant will be able to assist you and take care of the formalities involved in complying with the tax authorities.

The next step in opening a strawberry farm is to draw up your business plan.

What is a strawberry farm's business plan?

A business plan serves as a comprehensive roadmap outlining the objectives, strategies, and key components of your venture. 

There are two essential parts to a business plan:

• A numerical part, the financial forecast we mentioned earlier in this guide, which highlights the amount of initial financing needed to launch the business and its potential profitability over the next 3 to 5 years,
• A written part, which presents in detail the project of creating a strawberry farm and provides the necessary context to enable the reader of the business plan to judge the relevance and coherence of the figures included in the forecast.

Your business plan helps guide decision-making by showcasing your vision and financial potential in a coherent manner.

Your business plan will also be essential when you're looking for financing, as your financial partners will ask you for it when deciding whether or not to finance your project to open a strawberry farm. So it's best to produce a professional, reliable, and error-free business plan.

In essence, your business plan is the blueprint to turn your idea into a successful reality. 

What tool should you use to create your strawberry farm business plan?

If you want to write a convincing business plan quickly and efficiently, a good solution is to use an online business plan software for business start-ups like the one we offer at The Business Plan Shop.

Using The Business Plan Shop to create a business plan for a strawberry farm has several advantages :

• You are guided through the writing process by detailed instructions and examples for each part of the plan
• You can access a library of dozens of complete startup business plan samples and templates for inspiration
• You get a professional business plan, formatted and ready to be sent to your bank or investors
• You can create scenarios to stress test your forecast's main assumptions
• You can easily track your actual financial performance against your financial forecast by importing accounting data
• You can easily update your forecast as time goes by to maintain visibility on future cash flows

If you're interested in using our solution, you can try The Business Plan Shop for free by signing up here .

Raise the financing needed to launch your strawberry farm

With your business plan in hand, you can tackle one of the final steps to open a strawberry farm  business: the search for financing.

Raising the capital needed to launch your business will probably require a combination of equity and debt, which are the two types of financing available to companies.

Equity funding

Equity is the sum of money invested in a strawberry farm by both founders and investors.

Equity is a key factor in business start-ups. Should the project fail, the sums invested in equity are likely to be lost; these sums therefore enable the founders to send a strong signal to their commercial and financial partners as to their conviction in the project's chances of success.

In terms of return on investment, equity investors can either receive dividends from the company (provided it is profitable) or realize capital gains by selling their shares (provided a buyer is interested in the company).

Equity providers are therefore in a very risky position. They can lose everything in the event of bankruptcy, and will only see a return on their investment if the company is profitable or resold. On the other hand, they can generate a very high return if the project is a success.

Given their position, equity investors look for start-up projects with sufficient growth and profitability potential to offset their risk.

From a technical standpoint, equity includes:

• Share capital and premiums: which represent the amount invested by the shareholders. This capital is considered permanent as it is non-refundable. In return for their investment, shareholders receive shares that entitle them to information, decision-making power (voting in general assembly), and the potential to receive a portion of any dividends distributed by the company.
• Director loans: these are examples of non-permanent capital advanced to the company by the shareholders. This is a more flexible way of injecting some liquidity into your company as you can repay director loans at any time.
• Reserves: these represent the share of profits set aside to strengthen the company's equity. Allocating a percentage of your profits to the reserves can be mandatory in certain cases (legal or statutory requirement depending on the legal form of your company). Once allocated in reserves, these profits can no longer be distributed as dividends.
• Investment grants: which represent any non-refundable amounts received by the company to help it invest in long-term assets.
• Other equity: which includes the equity items which don't fit in the other categories. Mostly convertible or derivative instruments. For a small business, it is likely that you won't have any other equity items.

The main sources of equity are as follows:

• Contributions made by the owners.
• Private investors: business angels, friends and family.
• Crowdfunding: raising funds by involving a group of people through campaigns where they contribute money or make donations, often getting something in return for their support.
• Start-up aid, e.g. government loans to help founders build up their start-up capital.

Debt financing

Debt is the other way of financing companies. Unlike equity, debt offers lenders a limited, contractually guaranteed return on their investment.

Your strawberry farm undertakes to pay lenders' interest and repay the capital borrowed according to a pre-agreed schedule. Lenders are therefore making money whether or not your company makes a profit.

As a result, the only risk lenders take is that of your strawberry farm going bankrupt, so they're extremely conservative and will want to see prudent, hands-on management of the company's finances.

From the point of view of the company and all its stakeholders (workforce, customers, suppliers, etc.), the company's contractual obligation to repay lenders increases the risk for all. As a result, there is a certain caution towards companies which are too heavily indebted.

Businesses can borrow debt in two main ways:

• Against assets: this is the most common way of borrowing. The bank funds a percentage of the price of an asset (a vehicle or a building, for example) and takes the asset as collateral. If the business cannot repay the loan, the bank takes the asset and sells it to reduce losses.
• Against cash flows: the bank looks at how much profit and cash flow the business expects to make in the future. Based on these projections, it assigns a credit risk to the business and decides how much the business can borrow and under what terms (amount, interest rate, and duration of the loan).

It's difficult to borrow against future cash flows when you're starting a strawberry farm, because the business doesn't yet have historical data to reassure about the credibility of cash flow forecast.

Borrowing to finance a portion of equipment purchases is therefore often the only option available to founders. The assets that can be financed with this option must also be easy to resell, in the unfortunate event that the bank is forced to seize them, which could limit your options even further.

As far as possible sources of borrowing are concerned, the main ones here are banks and credit institutions. Bear in mind, however, that each institution is different, in terms of the risk it is prepared to accept, what it is willing to finance, and how the risk of your project will be perceived.

In some countries, it is also possible to borrow from private investors (directly or via crowdfunding platforms) or other companies, but not everywhere.

Key points about financing your strawberry farm

Multiple solutions are available to help you raise the initial financing you need to open your strawberry farm. A minimum amount of equity will be needed to give the project credibility, and bank financing can be sought to complete the financing.

Once you’ve secured financing, you will finally be ready to launch your strawberry farm. Congratulations! 

Celebrate the launch of your business and acknowledge the hard work that brought you here, but remember, this is where the real work begins. 

As you know, 50% of business start-ups do not pass the five-year mark. Your priority will be to do everything to secure your business's future. 

To do this, it is key to keep an eye on your business plan to ensure that you are on track to achieve your goals.

No one can predict the future with certainty, so it’s likely that your strawberry farm's financial performance will differ from what you predicted in your forecast.

This is why it is recommended to make several forecasts: 

• A base case (most likely)
• An optimistic scenario
• And a pessimistic scenario to test the robustness of your financial model

If you follow this approach, your numbers will hopefully be better than your optimistic case and you can consider accelerating your expansion plans. That’s what we wish you anyway!

If, unfortunately, your figures are below your base case (or worse than your pessimistic case), you will need to quickly put in place corrective actions, or consider stopping the activity. 

The key, in terms of decision-making, is to regularly compare your real accounting data to your strawberry farm's forecast to: 

• Measure the discrepancies and promptly identify where the variances with your base case come from
• Adjust your financial forecast as the year progresses to maintain visibility on future cash flow and cash position

There is nothing worse than waiting for your accountant to prepare your year-end accounts, which can take several months after the end of your financial year (up to nine months in the UK for example), to realise that the performance over the past year was well below the your base case and that your strawberry farm will not have enough cash to keep running over the next twelve months.

This is why using a financial forecasting solution that integrates with accounting software and offers actuals vs. forecast tracking out of the box, like the financial dashboards we offer at The Business Plan Shop , greatly facilitates the task and significantly reduces the risk associated with starting a business.

• This guide outlines the 15 key steps to open a strawberry farm.
• The financial forecast is the tool that will enable you to validate the financial viability of your business idea.
• The business plan is the document that will enable you to approach your financial and commercial partners to convince them of the strengths of your project and secure the financing you need to launch your business.
• The real work begins once you've launched your business, and the only way to maintain visibility of your company's future cash flow is to keep your forecast up to date.
• Using a financial planning and analysis platform that combines forecasting, business planning and actual vs. forecast tracking and monitoring, such as The Business Plan Shop, makes the process easier and reduces the risks involved in starting a business.

We hope this guide has helped you understand how to start a strawberry farm. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

Also on The Business Plan Shop

• Business plan samples for start-ups

Do you know someone who wants to know how to open a strawberry farm? Share our guide with them!

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

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How to Start a Strawberry Farm in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Updated:   February 22, 2024

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Strawberries remain one of the most popular berries in the country, with demand steadily rising over the past decade. In 2022, the market hit a $19 billion evaluation and should reach more than $32 billion by 2031. For those considering strawberry plants as a source of income, now’s the time to plant strawberries.

As health consciousness grows, so does interest in berries. With versatile uses for snacking, salads, baking, jams, and more, homegrown strawberries appeal to consumers across demographics.

This guide will walk you through how to start a strawberry farm. Topics include market research, competitive analysis, marketing, customer focus, registering an EIN, obtaining business insurance, forming an LLC, and more.

1. Conduct Strawberry Farm Market Research

Market research is essential to any business planning to grow strawberries. It offers insight into the best time to start growing strawberries, when to avoid planting strawberries, top forms of fruit production, your local target market, and more.

Some details you’ll learn through market research for your strawberry farming business include:

• The average American consumes a staggering 6.5 pounds of fresh strawberries per year.
• Berries now rival oranges as the most popular fruit choice.
• The best harvest often comes from June bearing strawberry plants. June-bearing strawberries develop flower buds late in the summer season.
• Nearly 90% of consumers report purchasing strawberries in the past 3 months.
• Strawberries support heart health, blood sugar control, anti-inflammatory response, and cancer prevention.
• Most states can support local strawberry farming during the warmer months.
• Homegrown berries command premium seasonal prices, often fetching 2-3 times more per pound than wholesale California berries at the grocery store.
• Beyond fresh eating, strawberries hold appeal for baking, jams, beverages, juices, and more.
• Kids, teens, Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers all enjoy strawberries, making them relevant across demographics.

While land, labor, and initial investments pose barriers, profit potential remains high. Smaller farms can net $15k to $60k per acre, with premium organic fetching 2 to 4 times more. Direct marketing through farmers’ markets, farm stands, and “pick-your-own” u-pick ventures can boost revenues.

2. Analyze the Competition

Competition analysis is essential for any new farming venture. For strawberry farms, key competitors fall into a few categories:

Research larger commercial strawberry operations in your state or region. In areas like California, prime growing areas are dominated by sizeable producers exporting berries across the U.S. Smaller local farms generally supply direct-to-consumer channels instead.

Profile nearby u-pick/agritourism farms. Search online directories and county extension guides to identify alternatives. Compare acreage under production, operating months/hours, pricing, and any value-added products or farm activities offered. This establishes the competitive bar.

Evaluate availability and pricing at regional farmers’ markets and farm stands. Visit markets during peak strawberry season and note key vendors and pricing across different berry cultivars. This can help shape competitive pricing and positioning.

Finally, search online to review the web presence and digital marketing of competitors. Assess their professionalism, product photography/messaging, website optimization, search visibility, and social media engagement. This flags areas for differentiation.

While the commercial berry industry is consolidated, opportunities exist through direct farm marketing channels. Carving out your niche requires the vigilance of regional alternatives consumers have to source and enjoy fresh, locally grown strawberries.

3. Costs to Start a Strawberry Farm Business

When budgeting to start a strawberry farm, numerous expenses arise. We’ll review key start-up and ongoing costs to provide realistic financial expectations.

Start-Up Costs

• Land Purchase or Lease – Acquiring prime land suited for strawberry cultivation tops the list at $15,000 per acre or more to buy, or $1,000+ yearly to lease.
• Site Preparation & Soil Amendments – Clearing, tilling, grading, installing drainage systems, enhancing soil nutrition, and fumigating for pests often add $5,000-10,000+ per acre.
• Irrigation & Water Access – Drip irrigation, pumps, pipes, and water access can tally $2,500-$10,000 per acre.
• Plants & Propagation Materials – Procure day-neutral bare root or plug starter plants from reputable nurseries, budgeting around $4,500 per acre.
• Propagation materials like containers, trays, grading equipment, and plant food total $500-$1,500 more.
• Field Supplies & Equipment – Priced from $3,000-$15,000+ depending on scale and whether buying new or used equipment.
• Facilities & Buildings – Basic storage sheds or shade structures run $2,500 on up. Cooler rooms for storing freshly picked berries can cost $5,000-$10,000.
• Professional Services – Lawyers and accountants help guide business formation, trademarks, food safety protocols, employee policies, taxes, and insurance at an initial cost of $2,000-$5,000.
• Business Formation, Licensing & Insurance – Forming an LLC or corporation brings state fees of $500-900.
• Working Capital – Keep at least 6 months of operating expenses accessible, so $10,000-$30,000+ depending on your monthly costs. This financial cushion safeguards through unforeseen issues.

Ongoing Costs

• Hired Labor – At $15-$20 hourly for farmhands, labor represents one of the largest recurring costs. For small operations of 1-5 acres, allot $15,000-$50,000+ annually for workers.
• Input Supplies – Fertilizer, pest control, harvest containers, frost protection, field tools, and irrigation parts collectively amount to at least $2,500-$7,500 outlaid each year.
• Equipment Maintenance – Expect $500-$5,000 for the yearly upkeep and seasonal servicing of tractors, field implements, facilities, drainage systems, and more.
• Marketing, Insurance, Utilities, etc. – These easily sum $5,000-$15,000+ per year for small operations. Larger enterprises and agritourism farms cost considerably more to promote and run.

By budgeting smartly for all start-up land, crop, tooling, labor, distribution, and infrastructure expenses, new strawberry farmers can create a bountiful business. Committing sufficient working capital until reaching annual profitability is key.

4. Form a Legal Business Entity

When establishing a strawberry farm, properly structuring your business entity brings key legal and financial advantages. We’ll compare options to steer new growers towards an optimal framework.

Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship represents the simplest and most common small business structure. Strawberry farmers function as independent owners declaring farm profits/losses on personal tax returns. Low initial paperwork and compliance needs benefit new operations.

Partnership

General partnerships allow strawberry farmers to combine resources with joint ownership distributed across partners. Partnership flexibility assists businesses in changing strategic direction. Unlimited personal liability still leaves owners vulnerable. Ambiguity around authority can breed conflict between partners over time.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

For small to mid-sized strawberry farms, LLCs offer the best of both worlds. As LLC owners, farmers limit personal liability and shield personal assets to the business investment amount. LLC income/losses pass through to members’ taxes, avoiding corporate double taxation.

Corporation

C corporations stand as separate legal entities from owners, providing full liability protection. Ownership is easily transferrable through selling stocks. Outside investments can fund major farmland, facility, or distribution network expansions.

5. Register Your Business For Taxes

Forming a formal business entity like an LLC requires obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. Much like a Social Security Number for an individual, EINs provide unique identifiers for tax and filing purposes.

Securing an EIN is mandatory for any LLC with employees, or otherwise necessary in opening business bank accounts, applying for licenses/permits, and documenting farm revenue.

Registering online streamlines the process. Simply navigate to IRS.gov and search “apply for an EIN”, then click to reach the online EIN Assistant. This walks applicants through a series of questions about the LLC structure, ownership details, and responsible parties.

After specifying the LLC is being formed to operate a strawberry farm, the Assistant then prompts filing as needed for employment taxes, excise taxes, or both depending on your hiring plans. The tool auto-generates an EIN confirmation which can be printed directly without awaiting mail delivery.

The entire online EIN process is free and takes under 15 minutes from start to finish. Providing the EIN thereafter to financial institutions when opening business bank accounts or applying for farm loans simplifies those applications.

Additionally, small businesses must register with their State Department of Revenue to collect/remit sales tax on goods sold. For example in Florida, berry farms must file for a state Tax ID through the Department of Revenue’s convenient online portal.

The $5 registration cost and minimal quarterly filing burden pose a small price to legally operate. Thankfully no federal or Florida permits exist specifically for berry farms – the EIN and sales tax ID complete the major regulatory needs so the focus can remain on nurturing those sweet, ripe strawberries.

6. Setup Your Accounting

Meticulous financial tracking is essential for new strawberry farms. Without organized expense reporting, inventory controls, and sales documentation, crucial tax deductions get missed which lowers profitability.

Accounting Software

Implementing small business accounting software like QuickBooks establishes the digital infrastructure for consolidating financial data. QuickBooks integrates with bank/credit card accounts to automatically import and categorize income and expenses, saving hours of manual entry. This software often runs $10-50 monthly.

Hire an Accountant

Enlisting an accountant handles bookkeeping, payroll, quarterly/annual tax paperwork, and optimizing write-offs so farmers focus on nurturing berries. Expect fees of around $100 monthly for basic QuickBooks assistance and up to $500+ monthly for comprehensive accounting support. Come tax season, accountants charge at least $500+ for filing Schedule F and other small business returns.

Open a Business Bank Account

Using a dedicated business checking account facilitates tracking farm-related banking. Single-member LLCs allow personal depositing to simplify transfers, but strictly business activity simplifies documentation. Recording all revenues and separating vendor payments while filing regular Profit &

Apply for a Business Credit Card

Small business credit cards help track expenditures without commingling personal budgeting. Building business credit also spurs access to higher limits and better terms than relying solely on consumer cards. Have your EIN and LLC documentation ready when applying to banks.

7. Obtain Licenses and Permits

Before welcoming your first customers, strawberry farmers must validate full legal compliance. Find federal license information through the U.S. Small Business Administration . The SBA also offers a local search tool for state and city requirements.

Nursery Registration Since strawberry farmers propagate thousands of plant runners for fruiting, all growers require a state nursery license. In Florida for example, registering as a nursery growing stock for commercial resale costs $100+ annually through the Florida Department of Agriculture.

Cottage Food Operation Value-added products like strawberry jams, preserves, or baked goods allow farmers to maximize crop usage while boosting revenues. For approved low-risk offerings produced in home kitchens, consider a Cottage Food permit which runs around $150 annually.

Certified Farmers Market Registration Many strawberry farmers directly market through local farmers’ markets. State departments of agriculture oversee certifications to vend approved products publicly.

In Florida for instance, an annual farmers market permit starts around $350. This reviews application criteria like vendor product sources, handling practices, inspection results, and liability insurance maintenance. Registration simplifies getting approved to vend at local markets countywide.

8. Get Business Insurance

Though extra costs strain farm budgets, business insurance defends berry growers against scenarios jeopardizing their harvests, properties, or livelihoods. General liability coverage insulates owners if visitors get injured onsite. Produce coverage shields against crop loss from unavoidable issues like storms, diseases, or equipment breakdowns.

Without protection, a guest breaking an ankle on uneven ground could pursue legal and medical fees from personal assets. Crop insurance provides vital income stability when forces beyond control damage yields.

Additional uninsured threats like fire, vandalism, or vehicle accidents open scary liability. One student group wanders unsupervised smashing thousands of green fruit. A neglected brush pile ignites flames which spread destroying your barn. An inexperienced driver crashes your produce van rushing berries to market.

Securing coverage begins with inventorying assets on hand plus documenting annual revenue and expenses. Insurers also evaluate risk factors from location, crop types, and onsite activities. Understanding these inputs allows brokers to source plans balancing ideal protection and affordability.

Expect to provide lots of specifics on operations, land, equipment, staff, and financials. Multi-peril packages blending general, product, and equipment insurance cost around $5,000 annually for small berry farms, decreasing on a per-acre basis for larger growers. Review all policy terms to avoid surprise loopholes or delays if catastrophe strikes.

Strawberry crop yields and farm continuity depend on many unforeseeable factors, making insurance an essential business safeguard.

9. Create an Office Space

Though centered outdoors, securing office space assists in developing strawberry farms by providing infrastructure for administration, planning, and off-season work. We’ll compare facilities with potential use cases.

Home Office

Converting a spare bedroom or basement into a basic home office running $500+ offers farmers without public venues an inexpensive starting point. This backyard hub supports daily paperwork, quick computer tasks, or phone calls in a quiet, convenient setting separate from family activities.

Shared Coworking Space

As farm staff expands or more collective storage is needed, leasing desks within shared coworking spaces like WeWork allows convenient access to printers/copiers, conference rooms, and front desk staff to handle mailings. Coworking rates range from $200-$500 monthly per dedicated desk, with flexible membership tiers to meet evolving needs.

Retail Farm Stand Office Strawberry operators vending from on-farm stands position small office nooks or clearance areas to stash supplies when not serving customers. Mini-sheds, retrofitted shipping containers, or a blocked-off barn corner minimally furnish spaces for daily operations or quick sales data entry at the point of commerce.

Commercial Farm Office Ambitious strawberry farmers managing larger teams or commercial volumes can invest $1,000-$5,000+ monthly leasing conventional office suites. While pricier, the professional setting and ample room to house multiple employees keep everything conveniently accessible in one secure headquarters.

While day-to-day strawberry farming remains outdoors, maintaining some office footprint matching current and future administrative needs saves time, provides operational infrastructure, and lends professional legitimacy as the berries and business continue growing.

10. Source Your Equipment

Properly equipping a new strawberry farm spans securing land, irrigation, facilities, field implements, and harvest gear. Balancing costs and reliability leads most farmers to blend channels.

Shiny tractors, berry containers, and the like project professionalism but squeeze startup budgets. Still, directly purchasing critical items that directly contact edibles like food-grade storage bins from commercial suppliers ensures peak sanitation and durability. Try Equipment Wholesalers for farm tools.

Buying Used

Gently used equipment significantly discounts spending while still meeting needs. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist reliably connect farmers to previous owners selling quality tools, contingent upon careful inspection. Cold storage units, diesel generators, and many implements easily transfer between owners.

Seasonal or midscale equipment avoids massive upfront investments by renting only as needed. For example, tilling extensive acreage or erecting special event tents temporarily shifts costs to periodic rental fees rather than ownership. Rental shops dot most regions offering reasonable rates and equipment flexibility.

Committed berry farmers preferring the latest gear every few years can leverage leasing agreements, essentially long-term rentals eventually returning implements. This frequently applies to expensive harvesters, conveyors, transplanters and processors best sourced new but too burdensome to purchase outright.

11. Establish Your Brand Assets

Cultivating an identifiable brand helps farms stand out from commodity produce by showcasing their unique growing practices, fruit qualities, or customer service. Memorably branding your berries makes impressions stretching long after those sweet, ripe flavors delight patrons.

Getting a Business Phone Number

Acquiring a dedicated business phone line professionalizes communications versus relying solely on personal devices. Services like RingCentral deliver call routing, voicemail transcriptions, nationwide numbers, and even text functionality across your devices for $30+ monthly.

Creating a Logo and Brand Assets

Logos encapsulate brands instantly, whether opting for illustrative, symbolic, or typeface-based marks. Looka ‘s logo generator quickly crafts custom images like a playful strawberry mascot matching your vision and color palette. Those farm-defining graphics can adorn packaging and all other visuals.

Creating Business Cards and Signage

Hard copy collateral like Vistaprint business cards and exterior signage makes memorable first impressions while establishing legitimacy. When networking or negotiating wholesale partnerships, professionally printed cards support credibility.

Purchasing a Domain Name

Securing aligned domain names ensures customers locate you online while relaying offerings. Services like Namecheap make registering and managing domains simple, typically running under $20 annually.

Building a Website

Every farm requires an online hub detailing offerings, hours, contact forms, and e-commerce functionality. Leveraging DIY website builders like Wix expedites the creation of stylish, responsive sites without coding expertise, typically running $10-$50 monthly. Those less web-savvy can hire experts online via marketplaces like Fiverr to handcraft sites around $500+.

12. Join Associations and Groups

Beyond networking, plugging into local berry grower organizations, trade events, and online communities gives farmers continual insight into amplifying yields, adopting best practices, and building market visibility.

Local Associations

Area strawberry commissions and growers associations like the North Carolina Strawberry Association or Florida Strawberry Growers Association connect producers for marketing promotion coordination plus events like summer field days with guest speakers covering novel growing techniques.

Local Meetups

Attend area farming tradeshows, panels, or agritourism seminars like those discoverable on sites such as Meetup . These recurring events allow growers to exchange insights into maximizing berry quality and productivity. They also build local camaraderie between regional farms as harvests approach.

Facebook Groups

With over 54,000 members, the Strawberry Farm Facebook group and others facilitate crowd-sourcing answers to production issues from pest management strategies to preferred berry varieties and direct marketing innovations.

13. How to Market a Strawberry Farm Business

Spreading the word about your flavorful, ripe berries requires strategic promotion to entice initial customers and maintain buzz as each seasonal harvest approaches. Balancing word-of-mouth referrals, digital discovery, and targeted advertising makes your farm more discoverable across demographics.

Referral Marketing

Everyone craves community connections. Early on, tapping personal networks to sample berries helps validate quality. Satisfying those initial visitors sparks invaluable referrals, especially if thanking cheerleaders with farm gift baskets showing your gratitude.

Digital Marketing

• Run Google/Facebook ads geotargeting nearby fruit lovers, optimized per click or impression with monthly budgets as low as $100
• Start an email newsletter with seasonal availability updates, new product launches, and special subscriber promotions to drive repeat purchases
• Post videos displaying behind-the-scenes processes for educational and transparency appeal, distributing across social media
• Optimizing SEO elements like page titles/descriptions improves search visibility for niche terms around u-pick berries

Traditional Marketing

• Design eye-catching print flyers for placement at local shops, libraries, and realty offices to complement digital promotion
• Sponsor a little league team or community festival to tie the farm to hometown happenings
• Place ads in regional gardening publications to inspire amateur growers with your propagation at scale
• Negotiate an underwriting trade out on community radio stations potentially exchanging berries for underwriting shoutouts

The most effective outreach interweaves digital discovery and one-to-one sharing. This cyclical promotion between virtual mediums and physical connections, constantly referencing each other in where to first encounter your berries, builds synergistic impressions ultimately accelerating trials.

14. Focus on the Customer

Strawberry farming depends on recurring customer purchases to support operating expenses across tight seasonal production windows. Building genuine community connections through exceptional service quality cements loyalty even when commodity berry prices fluctuate at grocers.

Delighting patrons with every interaction differentiates the farm-to-table experience from impersonal produce aisles. For example, infusing warmth into each check-out conversation instead of merely transactions shows you treat community members like family.

Inviting field trip groups and explaining propagation methods in student-friendly ways creates positive impressions reaching parents across the region. Families then visit to anticipate that same educational hospitality around your organic practices or bee pollination partnerships distinguished from industrial competitors.

Human-centric hospitality remains the special sauce that has helped beloved strawberry farms thrive for generations, despite agribusiness mechanization. Sustaining community trust through quality service makes all the difference.

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April 9, 2024

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How to start strawberry farming.

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Starting a strawberry farm can be a profitable venture for those interested in agriculture. Strawberry plants are relatively easy to grow, require minimal space, and can yield abundant fruit. Continue reading to discover how to start a strawberry farm.

Simple Steps to Starting Strawberry Farming

Starting a strawberry farm can be a fulfilling and lucrative business venture. However, like any other business, it requires planning, research, and execution. Here are some simple steps to follow to get your strawberry farming business up and running successfully:

Learn Everything You Can About Growing Strawberries

Before you start your strawberry farming business, it is crucial to gather as much knowledge as possible about growing strawberries.

This includes understanding the soil preparation, which involves testing the soil for pH levels and nutrient content and then amending it as necessary to create the optimal growing environment for the plants.

Plant selection is also vital; choose varieties that are well-suited for your region and resistant to common diseases.

Learn about the irrigation needs of strawberries, as they require a consistent water supply, especially during dry spells. Pest management is another critical aspect; familiarize yourself with common pests that affect strawberries and the best practices for controlling them.

Finally, learn about the harvesting process, as strawberries are delicate and need to be handled with care to avoid bruising and damage.

Set Aside or Acquire a Suitable Plot or Greenhouse to Grow Strawberries

The plot or greenhouse should be in an area with plenty of sunshine, good drainage, and fertile soil.

Plan Your Business and Sort out the Paperwork

Research local laws and regulations regarding strawberry farming, obtain permits and set up a record-keeping system.

Create a Strawberry Farming Business Plan

Develop a business plan that outlines your goals, objectives, and strategies for growing and marketing your strawberries.

Do Market Research

Analyze the local and regional markets, identify target customers, and determine the demand for your strawberries.

Form a Legal Entity and Register Your Strawberry Business

Choose a legal structure for your business, register it with the relevant authorities, and obtain the necessary licenses and permits.

Name and Brand Your Strawberry Business

Create a memorable and unique name and brand for your business that appeals to your target audience.

Open a Business Bank Account

Separate your business and personal finances by opening a business bank account.

Acquire The Equipment Needed for a Strawberry Farm

Purchase or lease equipment such as tillers, tractors, cultivators, and irrigation systems.

Choose Suitable Varieties for the Climate and Buy Seeds or Starters

Select the appropriate varieties of strawberries for your climate and purchase high-quality seeds or starters from reputable suppliers.

Understand Pesticide and Organic Options

Learn about the various pesticide options and organic alternatives available for strawberry farming. If you opt for an organic farm, research natural pest control methods and organic fertilizers.

Soil Testing and Amendment

Conduct regular soil tests to check nutrient levels and pH balance. Based on the results, amend the soil with organic matter, compost, or fertilizers to ensure it meets the specific needs of strawberry plants.

Climate Considerations

Understand the climatic requirements for strawberry cultivation in your region. Learn about frost protection, the importance of sunlight, and how to manage your crop in extreme weather conditions.

Water Management

Develop an efficient irrigation system that ensures consistent moisture without overwatering. Drip irrigation systems are often recommended for strawberry farms to conserve water and prevent diseases.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Implement an Integrated Pest Management plan to manage pests and diseases in a sustainable manner. This involves monitoring pest populations, using biological control agents, and applying chemicals only as a last resort.

Pollination Strategies

Ensure effective pollination of your strawberry plants for a good yield. While strawberries are self-pollinating, encouraging natural pollinators like bees can enhance fruit quality and size.

Grow and Harvest The Strawberries

Plant the strawberries, manage soil fertility, water and weed the crop, and harvest the ripe strawberries.

Growing and harvesting strawberries involves several crucial steps to ensure a healthy crop and a bountiful harvest:

Post-Harvest Handling

Establish a system for carefully handling and sorting strawberries after harvest to reduce damage and spoilage. Learn about proper storage conditions and packaging methods to extend the shelf life of the berries.

Market the Strawberry Business

Develop effective marketing strategies to reach your target customers, such as advertising, social media, and events.

Compliance with Regulations

Stay updated with agricultural regulations, including labor laws, food safety standards, and environmental regulations. Ensure compliance to avoid legal issues and maintain a good reputation.

Choose Where to Sell Your Strawberries

Choosing where to sell your strawberries is a crucial step in your business plan. The first step is to identify potential buyers in your area. Local grocery stores are often looking for fresh, locally-grown produce, and may even pay a premium for organic or specialty varieties.

Restaurants, especially those that focus on farm-to-table or locally-sourced ingredients, are another excellent option. Farmers’ markets are also a great place to sell your strawberries directly to consumers. Additionally, consider setting up a roadside stand or selling directly from your farm, if possible.

Don’t limit yourself to just these options; there are other potential markets as well. Schools, hospitals, or other institutions may be interested in purchasing fresh strawberries. Also, consider reaching out to local food co-ops or specialty stores.

It’s important to establish relationships with your buyers, understand their needs and preferences, and be reliable in your deliveries. Providing a high-quality product consistently will help you build a strong reputation and a loyal customer base.

Also, consider the pricing strategy that will make your strawberries competitive while ensuring a good profit margin for your business.

Sustainability Practices

Implement sustainable farming practices such as crop rotation, conservation tillage, and ecological pest management. These practices not only protect the environment but can also appeal to eco-conscious consumers.

Community Engagement and Marketing

Engage with your local community through events, educational tours, and participation in local markets. Utilize social media and online marketing to reach a wider audience and promote your farm.

Expand Your Strawberry Farm

Grow your business by expanding your production, exploring new markets, and developing new products.

Digital Marketing for Your Strawberry Farm

• Create a Website: Build a professional website for your strawberry farm with information about your farm, products, and how to purchase them. Include high-quality images, your farming story, and contact information.
• Leverage Social Media: Use social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest to showcase your strawberries, share updates about your farm, and connect with customers. Post engaging content including behind-the-scenes farm life, harvesting processes, and recipe ideas using strawberries.
• Email Marketing: Develop an email marketing campaign to keep your customers informed about the harvest season, availability of strawberries, special offers, and events at your farm.
• Content Marketing: Start a blog on your website where you can share valuable content related to strawberry farming, recipes, health benefits of strawberries, and sustainable agriculture practices. This can help drive organic traffic to your site.
• Online Advertising: Consider investing in online advertising such as Google Ads or social media ads to reach a larger audience. Target local customers or those interested in organic produce and agrotourism.
• SEO Strategies: Implement Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategies for your website to improve visibility in search engine results. Use keywords related to strawberry farming, organic produce, and local farming.
• Collaborations and Partnerships: Partner with local businesses, food bloggers, and influencers to promote your strawberry farm. Collaborations can help you reach new audiences and build credibility.
• Customer Reviews and Testimonials: Encourage your customers to leave reviews and testimonials on your website and social media pages. Positive reviews can significantly influence potential customers’ buying decisions.
• Online Sales and Delivery Options: If feasible, offer online sales of your strawberries and related products. Consider setting up a delivery or pick-up service for local customers.
• Virtual Farm Tours: Offer virtual tours of your farm through video content or live sessions on social media. This can help engage customers who are unable to visit in person.
• Analytics and Feedback: Regularly analyze your digital marketing efforts using tools like Google Analytics. Gather feedback from your customers to understand their preferences and improve your marketing strategies.

In conclusion, starting a strawberry farm involves a blend of agricultural knowledge, business acumen, and marketing strategies. By following these comprehensive steps and embracing digital marketing, you can establish a successful and sustainable strawberry farming business.

Why You Should Start a Strawberry Business

Starting a strawberry business could be one of the most rewarding decisions you could make. Not only does it have the potential for great financial returns, but it also allows you to work outdoors, be your own boss, and contribute to the health and wellness of your community.

Here are some key reasons why you should consider starting a strawberry business:

• High Demand : Strawberries are a popular fruit enjoyed by people of all ages around the world. They are used in a variety of products like jams, jellies, desserts, and beverages, ensuring a steady demand throughout the year.
• Minimal Start-up Costs : Compared to other agricultural businesses, strawberry farming requires relatively low start-up costs. Basic requirements include a piece of land, strawberry plants, and essential farming tools.
• Quick Returns : Strawberry plants typically start producing fruit within 4-6 weeks after planting and continue to produce for several years. This means you can start earning revenue relatively quickly compared to other crops.
• Health Benefits : Strawberries are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and other nutrients that are beneficial for health. Growing and selling strawberries contributes to the well-being of your community by providing a healthy food option.
• Agrotourism Opportunities : Strawberry farms are popular destinations for agrotourism. Offering pick-your-own experiences, farm tours, or on-farm markets can generate additional income and attract more customers to your business.

The Strawberry Industry in the United States

The strawberry industry in the US generates an estimated $3.5 billion annually, with California alone accounting for over $2.3 billion. The California Strawberry Commission started the “Snack with Heart” marketing campaign in 2020 to promote the health benefits of California strawberries. The best-growing areas for strawberries in the U.S. include California, Florida, and North Carolina.

How Much Does it Cost to Start a Strawberry Farm?

The cost of starting a strawberry farm depends on several factors, such as the size of the farm, equipment, land, labor, and marketing expenses. However, it’s generally considered a low-cost investment, with estimates ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 or more.

Understanding the Basics of Strawberry Cultivation

Understanding the basics of strawberry cultivation is essential for anyone looking to start a strawberry farm. Here are the basics of growing strawberries:

Varieties of Strawberry Plants

There are three main types of strawberry plants: June-bearing, day-neutral, and everbearing. Each type has its unique characteristics and growing requirements.

June Bearing Strawberry Plants

These varieties produce buds that bring in a large crop of berries in late spring to early summer. They require a cold winter dormancy period, thrive in milder climates, and require plenty of space between mother plants. Strawberries in general don’t thrive in hot weather.

Day-Neutral Strawberry Plants

Day-neutral strawberries bear fruit all season, without winter dormancy, and can thrive in various climates.

Everbearing Strawberry Plants

Everbearing strawberries produce two to three harvests per season, typically in late spring, summer, and early fall. They also do not require a winter dormancy period.

Using Raised Beds to Plant Strawberries

A raised strawberry bed offers good drainage, consistent soil temperature, better growth, and higher yield. Use a proper soil pH mix specifically formulated for strawberry cultivation in your raised bed.

Increasing The Average Strawberry Yield

Increase strawberry yield with proper spacing, fertilization, pruning, and weed and pest control.

Choosing a Planting Site

Select a site with full sun exposure and well-draining soil. Avoid areas with standing water or heavy clay soil.

Planting Strawberries

Plant strawberries in the spring or fall, and space them according to the variety’s requirements. Water regularly and apply fertilizer as needed.

Mulching Strawberries

Mulching helps maintain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Consider using straw or pine needles as mulch and remove mulch in the early spring before new growth starts.

Pruning Strawberries

Prune dead or damaged leaves and runners regularly to promote healthy growth and improve fruit quality. Remove all foliage after the final harvest of the growing season.

Harvesting Strawberries

Harvest strawberries when they are fully ripe, typically when the fruit is bright red and has a sweet aroma. Gently lift the fruit from the plant to avoid damaging it.

Ways to add Value when Growing Strawberries

There are various ways to add value to your strawberry farm and achieve greater profits, such as:

You can make strawberry jam or jelly from the berries you grow and market it through a store or online.

Start a U-Pick

U-pick operations attract visitors and let them harvest their own berries which can create additional revenue for the farm.

Create a CSA

Build a community-supported agriculture program and offer fresh strawberries to members weekly or biweekly.

Sell at Farmers Markets

Start selling at farmer’s markets offering fresh strawberries and other homemade products.

Offer Pickled Strawberries

A unique and flavorful way to sell your strawberries is by pickling them. It’s a trendy option that customers will love.

The Bottom Line

Starting a strawberry farm doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. With the right knowledge of how to start a farm or how to start farming with no money and this guide, you’ll have the tools in your arsenal to start a strawberry farm.

Once your farm is successful, you can explore agricultural business ideas for diversification. You can start a hay farm, start a tree farm , or even learn how to start potato farming. The possibilities are endless. Good luck!

Strawberry Farm FAQs

How do strawberry farms make money.

Money is earned from selling the harvested strawberries at farmer’s markets, grocery stores, or partner restaurants.

Is it Easy to Grow Strawberries?

Yes. With the right soil, sunlight, and water, anyone can grow strawberries, even in a backyard garden.

Are June Bearing Strawberry Plants the Best?

June-bearing strawberries are widely considered to be the best type of strawberry plant due to their high yield capacity and sweet flavor.

Is Planting Strawberries Hard Work?

While planting and maintaining strawberry crops can be work-intensive, with the right preparation and resources, it can be rather straightforward. Avoid planting strawberries where other vegetables susceptible to Verticillium wilt have recently been planted.

How do I Get the Best Strawberry Crop?

To get the best yield out of your strawberry crop, ensure that you have fertile soil and sufficient space between plants for proper airflow as well as access to direct sunlight.

How Long Do Strawberries Take To Grow?

Depending on the variety of strawberries planted, they usually take about three months from planting until harvest season.

Image: Envato Elements

Three days ago I ate strawberry and left some to grow. I pealed the skins and dried them so I may harvest the seeds this morning . This article is just the perfect motivator to take it beyond growing for my kids. Thank you

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Strawberry Farming Business Plan Template

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Introduction

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Growing Strawberries Commercially: Mastery Tips for Profitable Farming

Growing strawberries commercially is a venture that requires a multifaceted approach to achieve a bountiful harvest. I understand that the process starts with choosing the right variety of strawberry plants. Picking a variety suitable for the climate and resistant to local pests and diseases is vital. I pay close attention to the selection, as different varieties offer varying yields, flavors, and capacities for handling transport. Successful commercial production also hinges on adopting effective practices, such as integrated pest management (IPM), to maintain plant health and berry quality.

In my experience, strawberries must be planted at the correct time and tended with care to flourish. This means considering soil conditions, planting methods, and tending to the plants through the seasons. I’ve learned that efficient water management and fertility plans are fundamental to support their growth. Once the plants are established, workers need to harvest the strawberries almost daily due to their rapid ripening. For me, ensuring a labor force to match the scale of the operation is critical, as is having a plan for marketing and distributing the berries so they reach customers at peak freshness.

JUMP TO TOPIC

Understanding Strawberry Cultivars

Planting strategies for maximum productivity, irrigation and temperature management, integrated pest management techniques, addressing common strawberry diseases, pest control during the winter months, commercial production and profitability, equipment and infrastructure investment, greenhouse and tunnel production, organic and traditional farming approaches, optimizing strawberry yield.

To ensure a lucrative strawberry yield, it’s essential to select the right cultivars, employ strategic planting methods, and manage irrigation and temperature effectively. These elements contribute significantly to both the quantity and the quality of the harvest. Let’s explore the specifics of each critical aspect.

There are numerous strawberry cultivars available, each with its unique traits and optimal growing conditions. I focus on cultivars known for high yield and quality to maximize production. For example, ‘Albion’ and ‘Camarosa’ are popular due to their robust flavor and large, consistent berry size. Choosing the right cultivar involves:

• Regional climate suitability: Selecting cultivars that thrive in my farm’s climate.
• Disease resistance: Opting for cultivars that are less susceptible to common diseases in the area saves on both time and resources in managing plant health.
• Harvest season timing: I can extend the fruit production window by planting cultivars with varying maturity periods.

The way I plant strawberry plants significantly impacts yield. Spacing and the use of runners influence the number of strawberries produced. I use the following approaches:

• Proper spacing: I ensure each plant has enough room to grow, which reduces competition for nutrients and minimizes disease spread.
• Runners management: I keep runners in check by pruning them to prevent over-crowding and direct the plant’s energy into fruit production rather than vegetative growth.
• Use of plastic mulch: This technique helps to suppress weeds, conserve soil moisture, and keep berries clean, promoting a higher quality yield.

Strawberries require consistent moisture, especially during fruit set and fruit development stages. Overwatering or underwatering can negatively affect yield and berry size. I employ drip irrigation to provide a steady supply of water directly to the plant roots, minimizing water wastage and preventing fungal diseases that can arise from overhead watering. Temperature control is equally vital; strawberries produce more fruit when grown in milder temperatures. On my farm, I practice the following:

• Temperature monitoring: I keep a close watch on temperature fluctuations, especially during critical growth stages, to ensure optimal fruit production.
• Use of row coverings: These help to protect the plants from frost damage in cooler climates, which can be a significant threat to yield quality and quantity.

By implementing these targeted strategies, I can optimally cater to the needs of my strawberry plants, ensuring that each plant has the best possible conditions for maximal fruit production, leading to higher profitability.

Protecting Against Pests and Disease

When growing strawberries commercially, it is crucial to implement strategic pest and disease control measures. Not only does this protect the crop from immediate damage, but it also supports long-term plant health and sustainability.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a holistic approach to controlling pests, which combines biological, cultural, physical, and chemical tools in a way that minimizes economic, health, and environmental risks. For my strawberry crops, I apply IPM principles in the following ways:

Monitoring: Regularly scouting for pests and disease symptoms. Thresholds: Establishing action thresholds to decide when management is needed. Biological Controls: Introducing beneficial insects to target pests. Cultural Practices: Using crop rotation and resistant strawberry varieties. Chemical Controls: Prudent use of pesticides as a last resort.

Strawberry anthracnose and botrytis, also known as gray mold, are two significant diseases I face in the field. Immediate identification and control are key to management:

💥 Disease Identification

• Anthracnose: I look for sunken, dark lesions on fruit and leaves.
• Botrytis: I keep an eye out for gray, fuzzy mold on berries, particularly in cool, damp weather.

To manage these, I use disease-resistant varieties and apply fungicides carefully to avoid the development of fungicide resistance. Additionally, I remove infected plant debris to reduce disease spread.

Cold damage in winter can be a significant concern as it impacts the vitality of the plants. I protect my strawberries, especially the day-neutral varieties which fruit regardless of day length, by:

• Applying straw mulch after several hard frosts
• Ensuring the crown is covered but the foliage remains above the mulch
• Removing mulch in early spring to allow new growth

Furthermore, I watch for overwintering mites that may cause damage when temperatures rise. A dormant oil spray applied during the cold months can help control these pests effectively.

Strawberry Business Considerations

Starting a commercial strawberry operation involves careful consideration of profitability and the investment in necessary equipment and infrastructure. I’ll guide you through the critical factors of commercial production and profitability followed by what you need to invest in equipment and infrastructure to cultivate strawberries effectively and efficiently.

Commercial strawberry production hinges on understanding the delicate balance between input costs and market prices. Plasticulture, an advanced growing method involving plastic mulch and drip irrigation, has become a standard practice in the strawberry industry for its efficiency and yield benefits. The initial setup for plasticulture might seem costly but in most cases results in higher profit margins due to increased fruit production and quality.

To illustrate:

Input Costs:

• Planting stock
• Plastic mulch and drip tape
• Fertilizers and pesticides
• Water via pump stations
• Labor for planting and harvesting

Yield and Market Factors:

• Plant variety and health
• Season length and timing
• Market demand and prices
• Quality of fruit produced

I must also consider market dynamics; consumer preferences may change, and unforeseen events can affect supply and demand. Therefore, diversification and adaptability are crucial in maintaining profitability.

The right equipment and infrastructure are pivotal for a successful strawberry farming enterprise. From the basics such as a reliable tractor and implements for bed shaping to custom fabrication and specialized farm tools, the investment in equipment ensures high efficiency and productivity.

Here’s an overview of key equipment investments:

Considering the investment in equipment, I always analyze the long-term benefits and efficiency gains. Well-designed infrastructure, including cold storage, packing areas, and irrigation systems, will enhance the shelf life of strawberries and reduce post-harvest losses. Investing in durable and efficient equipment and infrastructure lays the groundwork for a profitable enterprise.

Advanced Growing Techniques

In my experience, modern greenhouse and organic farming approaches are revolutionizing the way strawberries are cultivated commercially. These advanced techniques optimize plant health, improve yields, and extend the growing season beyond the traditional outdoor harvest times.

For growing strawberry plants year-round, greenhouses and high tunnels offer controlled environments that shelter crops from extreme weather while providing the optimum conditions necessary for growth. As a guide:

Using greenhouses, I can manage critical factors such as humidity, temperature, and light. For instance, strawberries require 50-80 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth, a range easily maintained in a greenhouse. Low tunnels, conversely, are less investment-heavy and can extend the growing season while protecting the plants from frost.

Transitioning between traditional and organic strawberry farming, I evaluate everything from pest management to soil fertility. Organic production necessitates a comprehensive understanding of sustainable practices and a commitment to food safety.

💥 Key Points in Organic Farming:

• Use of natural fertilizers and compost: Nutrition is essential for healthy fruit.
• Integrated pest management: Adhering to organic standards to manage pests and diseases.
• Cultural practices like mulching and manual weeding.
• Annual renovation of June-bearing strawberries is crucial.

In traditional crop farming, conventional methods often yield quicker results with the application of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Both everbearers and June-bearing strawberries can thrive under traditional farming, with careful attention to soil preparation and plant nutrition.

Moving between these two approaches requires a deep understanding of the types of strawberries and their specific needs. Both greenhouse production and organic practices can contribute to large, flavourful yields, but it’s critical to stay informed on the latest agricultural innovations and adhere to food safety regulations.

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Strawberry Production

Strawberries on Matted Row

Strawberry production can be a good fit for many small scale and part-time farming operations. The high value of strawberries creates potential for significant profit from a small planting; however, management of this crop is intensive and there is the likelihood of encountering a number of production difficulties.

Most strawberries produced in the United States are consumed fresh. Several decades ago more than 40 percent of strawberries produced in the United States were processed, but in recent years this figure has declined to less than 20 percent. Typically, the price received for processing strawberries is less than half that received for fresh-market berries. In Pennsylvania and surrounding states, nearly all strawberries are used for fresh-market sales.

Strawberries are grown on more than 60,000 acres in the United States today. The top fresh-market-strawberry-producing states are California and Florida by far, with North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania also in the top five states. The United States ranks first in the world for strawberry production, followed by China and Spain.

Because they are so perishable, strawberries are well suited to farm market and pick-your-own operations, where time from harvest to sale can be kept to a minimum. Roadside stands (either your own or another grower's) and pick-your-own operations provide opportunities to receive relatively high prices for your strawberries, but you may have some additional expenses for advertising, building and maintaining a facility, and providing service to your customers. With pick-your-own operations, you save on harvest costs, but you must also be willing to accept some waste.

Grower-harvested berries are most commonly sold in open quart and pint containers, such as pulp, wooden, or plastic baskets (rather than plastic clamshells). When berries are sold through local retailers, such as a grocery store, it may be wise to discuss preferred containers prior to harvest. Containers like clamshells protect berries from handling by others and may provide greater food safety, but they may also give consumers the initial impression that berries are not locally produced. Prominent signage indicating the origin of the produce may help to remedy this situation.

When selling through local retailers, you must take the time to contact produce managers and must provide good quality strawberries when stores require them. Recently, widespread interest in buying local has resulted in increased opportunities to work with local retailers.

Other marketing alternatives available to the strawberry grower include other types of wholesale markets such as auctions, cooperatives, and processing firms. In wholesale marketing, either you or a shipper can take your crop to the market. Shippers generally sell and transport strawberries for a predetermined price. Wholesale marketing is subject to the greatest price fluctuations. Marketing cooperatives generally use a daily pooled cost and price, which spreads price fluctuations over all participating producers. Depending on your location, processors may or may not be a marketing option. Processors are less likely to contract with small-acreage growers. For more information on marketing, consult Fruit and Vegetable Marketing for Small-scale and Part-time Growers.

In recent years, the price received by Pennsylvania growers has been either the highest or the second highest among states for which this information is available. This high price may be partially attributable to high demand and proximity to markets, as the highest prices are typically received near population centers. However, there is also a strong correlation between price and quality, and growers should take note that the effort put into producing a high-quality product is likely to pay off.

Prices in Pennsylvania range from $1.00 to nearly $4.00 per pound for pick-your-own strawberries, and from $3.00 to $8.00 per quart for picked strawberries. An open-top quart of strawberries averages about 1.4 pounds, but the weight varies with cultivar and berry size. Prices for strawberries for processing are much lower and are subject to greater fluctuation because of international supply-and-demand conditions. Processing prices have ranged from around $0.30 to $0.80 per pound in recent years. Nationwide, average processing prices are less than half that of average fresh-market prices, and processing berries account for only about 8 percent of the strawberry industry value of production.

Depending on the type of plant grown, plants may be fruited during the typical early summer strawberry season or during the summer and fall. Growers should evaluate supply and demand before planting large areas to strawberries. Fruit production at less typical times of the year can either give you a competitive advantage or leave you with fruit having little or no market, depending on consumer preference and market channels in your area. As consumers become more accustomed to year-round strawberry availability, more growers are reporting increased demand for local berries over a longer season.

Strawberry Plant Growth: Effects on Production Options

Strawberry varieties fall into two main types, June bearing and day neutral. In Pennsylvania and nearby states, June bearing strawberries produce their fruit in the late spring and early summer, hence their name. However, they may produce their fruit in May, June, or early July, depending on variety, production methods used, and location. June-bearing varieties are well adapted to all parts of the region and constitute much of the current strawberry acreage.

Day-neutral strawberries bloom and fruit repeatedly, usually in flushes, throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Day-neutral varieties generally perform best in cooler regions. Either type of plant can be grown in a matted-row production system or in raised beds using plastic mulch.

These systems are described in brief under "Production Systems," with greater detail provided in the Mid-Atlantic Berry Guide for Commercial Growers and Season-Long Strawberry Production with Everbearers for Northeastern Producers.

The aboveground portion of the strawberry plant consists of a crown, leaves, runners, flowers, and fruit. The crown is a compressed stem from which leaves, runners, and flowers arise, and may contain smaller branch crowns in addition to the original crown. Runners are long stolons on which daughter plants are produced and may be used to fill in a bed. Temperature and day length determine which plant parts are being grown and how quickly. This affects the timing and relevance of cultural steps in different production systems.

The strawberry plant has an extremely shallow root system, with roots extending only about 6 inches deep in clay loam soils. Because of this shallow root system, and because flower blossoms can be killed by spring frosts, irrigation is either strongly recommended or a necessity, depending on the production system. For more information on crop irrigation, consult Irrigation for Fruit and Vegetable Production .

Site Selection

Strawberries can be grown on a variety of soils. Choose a well-drained site that receives plenty of sun and is close to an irrigation source. The slope of the site should be no greater than 12 percent. The term "well drained" refers to drainage through the soil profile. A sloping site is not necessarily well drained.

Soil should have a pH of 6.0 to 6.5 and should be tested the fall before planting is intended. Do not use a site in undisturbed sod because it can harbor root-feeding grubs that can damage the strawberry roots. Also, strawberry plantings should not follow V erticillium -susceptible crops such as peppers, eggplant, potatoes, or tomatoes. Soil that has been used to grow these crops should be either planted with a non- V erticillium -susceptible cover crop for five to eight years or fumigated before planting. Cover cropping for at least a year with a crop such as rye or sudangrass is highly recommended to help control weeds before strawberry beds are planted. In addition, cover crops can be plowed under to add organic matter to heavy soils. Fertilizer requirements vary with soil type, location, and production system, and thus are not discussed in this brief publication.

Production Systems

Matted-row production for june-bearing varieties.

Matted-row production relies on the establishment of a filled-in row of strawberry plants through runner and daughter plant proliferation. The original mother plants are planted on a relatively wide spacing. This is a relatively low-cost system for producing strawberries. Matted-row production was the standard strawberry production system in the region for many years, and it is still the system used for most of the strawberry acreage. It is frequently used for pick-your-own operations.

In matted-row production, dormant crown strawberry plants are usually planted 18 to 24 inches apart in rows 36 to 48 inches apart. Spacing decisions depend on the size of your equipment. Growers should purchase cultivars resistant to red stele and verticillum wilt from a reputable nursery (table 1).

These plants should be set in April as soon as the soil can be worked. Flower blossoms should be removed during the first season. This practice sacrifices the first year's crop, but it enables growers to establish a bed of vigorous plants. It is especially important to closely monitor and control pests in the first year. During mid- to late summer, the original plants will begin to produce runners and daughter plants that should be moved into the rows. After daughter plants fill in a 12- to 18-inch-wide bed, runners and daughter plants that begin to fill the aisles may be removed during cultivation operations.

Four inches of clean straw mulch (about 2 tons of straw per acre) should be applied when the plants are dormant, usually between late November and late December. This practice protects the strawberry plants from sudden temperature fluctuations and helps prevent frost heaving, which can break roots and expose crowns to cold temperatures. The straw should be removed during the following March when the soil temperature reaches 40 degrees at a 4-inch depth. Plants flower in April to May depending on location. Fruit matures 26 to 30 days after flowering.

After fruiting is complete, the beds are renovated (mowed, narrowed, fertilized, and treated with herbicides in conventional production) and the fruiting cycle begins again. Fruit size decreases with the age of the bed, and overall yield declines after about two to three years.

In the mid-Atlantic states, a well-maintained matted-row strawberry planting of June bearers should produce an average of 10,000 pounds per acre, though yields range widely from half to twice this much.

Plasticulture Production for June-bearing Varieties

This system works best in warmer regions with a relatively long growing season. High yields are dependent on plants' producing branch crowns rather than daughter plants. Low yields are common in cooler areas (zones 6a and cooler) due to a shorter period of suitable conditions for plant growth and flower bud initiation in the fall. Capital input into this system is fairly high, though yields and fruit quality also have the potential to be high. The degree of management required is high, and so is the need for attention to detail.

Many growers who raise strawberries using plastic mulch use the same bedding equipment that they already have for vegetable production, though the strawberry plants would benefit from higher beds that drain easily and warm more quickly. Plug plants (actively growing plants grown in cell trays) are planted through the plastic mulch late enough to discourage excessive runner formation, but early enough to promote plant establishment and branch crown formation. This is early to mid-September in warmer locations (USDA hardiness zones 7a and warmer) and mid- to late August for colder sites (zone 6b).

Alternatively, dormant bare-root crowns can be used. These are planted during mid-July in warmer locations and from mid-June to mid-July in cooler areas (later than for matted-row production to minimize runners, which need to be removed). A good spacing for plants is in double rows 12 inches apart on each bed, with plants staggered 12 inches apart within each row.

Floating row covers are applied in the fall when daytime highs are in the low 70s to keep plants actively growing and to encourage more branch crowns and flower buds to form. The row covers also provide winter protection, as they reduce wind desiccation and buffer the planting from temperature extremes. In more northern locations, straw mulch (added under the covers) in addition to row covers may be helpful, though rodent pressure will be greater. In the spring, straw should be removed from the beds and placed in the walkways as soon as the plants resume growth. Row covers should then be pulled back on if early fruiting is a goal. Row covers should be removed as soon as the plants begin to bloom to allow pollinators access to the blossoms.

Since establishment-year inputs are high and following year inputs are quite low with the plasticulture system, many growers hold their plantings over for a second year of harvest. Yields from carryover plantings can be high. Plantings are renovated by mowing off the leaves, thinning the crowns, and resuming watering and fertilization to encourage new growth. Row covers are not applied until winter for protection of carryover plantings.

In lieu of carrying plantings over, double-cropping with another crop (replacing the strawberry plants using the same plastic) can be accomplished using warm-season crops in warmer areas and cool-season crops where the growing season is shorter.

The goal is to produce marketable yields of about 1 pound per plant, or over 14,000 pounds per acre. However, most growers in the region find yields of 0.75 to 0.9 pound per plant to be more attainable. If yields are below 0.5 pound per plant, a different production system should be considered.

Matted-Row Production for Day-neutral Varieties

Day-neutral strawberries can be grown in a matted-row system as described for June bearers, with some differences. The intention is to establish plants quickly that can produce fruit in the first season, so day-neutral strawberry plants are planted at a close spacing, with plants 5 to 10 inches apart in the row. Runners are removed throughout the first season and flowers should be removed for the first 6 weeks after planting. Mulching day-neutral plants with 4 inches of clean straw is essential since mulch prevents large fluctuations in moisture availability and temperature.

Plants fruit from mid-August through the first hard frost during the first year. In subsequent years in warm areas, plants produce three crops--an average-sized spring crop, a small summer crop, and a heavy fall crop. In cooler areas, plants may produce more consistently through the year. Fertilizer requirements are higher than for June bearers. In a matted-row system, day-neutral plantings are normally kept for only two to three years, as berry size decreases quickly. Day-neutral cultivars suitable for production in the mid-Atlantic region are described in Table 1.

Plasticulture Production for Day-neutral Varieties

This system is the one most commonly used, and it is best suited to cooler areas of the region, as high temperatures can cause plants to cease flowering or negatively affect pollination. In areas where the summer becomes hot (highs in the high 80s and 90s) the highest yields are obtained in the fall, and little production occurs from late July to late August. In areas that are cool throughout the summer, such as high-elevation areas (maximum temperatures typically reaching the low to mid eighties), the highest yields are obtained during the summer. Plantings are typically kept for only one year, or carried over to include a spring harvest in the second year. Fruit size drops off considerably after this time.

After the soil is prepared, plastic-mulched beds and trickle irrigation tape are laid as for June-bearer plasticulture production. A reflective or white-on-black plastic (white side up) plastic is preferred to keep soil temperatures cool.

Planting occurs in late spring rather than summer as with June bearers on plastic, using either dormant plants or large-size plug plants that are produced from dormant plants in a greenhouse. This allows for rapid plant establishment and quick fruit production. Details on producing these types of plants are outlined in the Mid-Atlantic Berry Guide for Commercial Growers . A common plant spacing is 12 inches apart in a staggered pattern within each row in double rows that are 12 inches apart. Production may be extended into the fall if row covers are pulled on during early frost events.

Yields of day-neutral varieties are typically higher than those of June bearers because of the extended harvest season. Yields of 0.75 to 1.25 pounds of fruit per plant are reasonable for a high-yielding cultivar that is suited to your site.

Harvest and Postharvest Handling

Strawberries must be picked and handled very carefully. Berries are harvested at least three times per week. The fruit must be firm, well colored, and free from rot. When harvested at the right time and handled properly, strawberries will remain in good condition for a few days. Proper postharvest handling of strawberries is essential. Cooling the berries removes field heat and lengthens their shelf life. Harvesting early in the day while temperatures are cool and then precooling the fruit before selling or shipping extends shelf life significantly.

Pest Management

Several insect pests and diseases can cause crop losses; therefore, it's important to monitor and control pests. Some pests affect the flowers and fruit, while others attack the foliage, stems, crowns, and roots of the plant. Pest management involves many aspects of production, with pesticide application being only one. Learn to correctly identify pests, incorporate scouting into your routine to catch problems early, and become familiar with the pests' biology. Many pest problems can be avoided or greatly reduced by proper site selection, crop rotation, judicious timing of various operations, and the use of disease-free plants.

Birds can be a serious problem on many strawberry farms. Netting, chemical repellents, scare tactics, and noise devices may be required to protect the crop. Deer also can cause extensive damage to the plants by trampling and eating the plants and ripening berries. Hunting, fencing, and repellents all can reduce deer damage.

Weeds must be controlled, as strawberries have shallow root systems that put them at a disadvantage when competing for water and nutrients. Many weed problems can be greatly reduced by avoiding sites with persistent weed problems and eliminating weeds before planting. Shallow cultivation and herbicide application can control weeds after establishment, but persistence is needed. Few herbicides are available for strawberries, but if they are applied appropriately and if hand and machine cultivation is employed when chemical controls cannot be used or fail, a strawberry planting can be very profitable.

Sample Budgets

Included in this publication are strawberry production budgets for June-bearing matted row production and June-bearing plasticulture production, as these systems are the two most widely used. Day-neutral production costs are similar to costs of June-bearing production for either system, with the exceptions that plant costs and fertilizer costs are somewhat higher, harvest container and labor costs should be higher due to higher yields (only if berries are sold as already picked), and timing of some operations is different.

The first table summarizes the costs of land preparation, establishment, and mature production for a matted-row planting of June-bearing strawberries, while the second table summarizes the costs of land preparation, establishment, and mature production for a June-bearing plasticulture planting. These budgets assume that your berries will be sold in containers. If you intend to sell berries in a pick-your-own operation, you can subtract costs for harvesting and containers. These sample budgets should help ensure all costs and receipts are included in your calculations. Costs and returns are often difficult to estimate in budget preparation because they are numerous and variable. Therefore, you should think of these budgets as an approximation and then make appropriate adjustments in the “Your Estimate" column to reflect your specific growing and resource situation.

Additional strawberry budgets can be found in the Mid-Atlantic Berry Guide for Commercial Growers . More information on the use of crop budgeting in farm management decision-making can be found in Budgeting for Agricultural Decision Making .

You can make changes to the interactive PDF budget files for this publication by inputting your own prices and quantities in the green outlined cells for any item. The cells outlined in red automatically calculate your revised totals based on the changes you made to the cells outlined in green. You will need to click on and add your own estimated price and quantity information to all of the green outlined cells to complete your customized budget. When you are done, you can print the budget using the green Print Form button at the bottom of the form. You can use the red Clear Form button to clear all the information from your budget when you are finished.

Sample Budget Worksheets

• Sample Strawberry Budget-Land Prep-Plasticulture or Matted Row Production
• Sample Strawberry Budget-Planting-Plasticulture Production
• Sample Strawberry Budget-Mature-Plasticulture Production
• Sample Strawberry Budget-Planting-Matted Row Production
• Sample Strawberry Budget-Mature-Matted Row Production

Initial Resource Requirements

Land: 1 acre

• Land preparation: 4-6 hours
• Establishment: 60-65 hours
• Production: 55-60 hours
• Custom harvest labor (mature): $4,000-$6,000
• Land preparation: $300-$400
• Strawberry plants: $900-$4,000
• Mulch: $180-$300 per year

Fuel, repairs, maintenance, and depreciation of machinery: $10-600 per year

Local Regulations

All agricultural operations in Pennsylvania, including small and part-time farming enterprises, operate under the Pennsylvania Clean Streams Law. A specific part of this law is the Nutrient Management Act. Portions of the act may or may not pertain to your operation, depending on the number and/or sizes of animals you have. However, all operations may be a source of surface or groundwater pollution. Because of this possibility, you should contact your local Soil and Water Conservation District to determine what regulations may pertain to your operation.

• Risk Management

You may wish to consider several risk-management strategies for your operation. First, you should insure your facilities as well as your crops. This may be accomplished by consulting your insurance agent or broker. If you are planning a pick-your-own marketing option, you should consult your insurance salesperson since you may not be covered under your farm owner's policy. Second, you may want to insure income for your entire operation through a crop insurance program called Whole-Farm Revenue Protection (WFRP). To use WFRP you must have five years of Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Schedule F forms. If your business structure is either a C or an S corporation, the necessary information can be entered into a Schedule F for crop insurance purposes. You can then contact an agent who sells crop insurance and insure the income of your operation. For more on agricultural business insurance, see “Agricultural Alternatives: Agricultural Business Insurance." For more information concerning crop insurance, contact a crop insurance agent or check the Pennsylvania Crop Insurance Education webpage .

New food safety regulations may or may not apply to you depending on the size of your operation. For more information on this topic, visit the Food and Drug Agency (FDA) website .

When using any pesticides in your enterprise, remember to follow all label recommendations regarding application rates and personal protection equipment requirements. Also remember that any Worker Protection Standards apply to both the owner and employees.

For More Information

Publications.

Childers, N. F. The Strawberry, a Book for Growers, Others. Gainesville, FL: Horticultural Publications, 2003.

Crassweller, R. Fruit Production for the Home Gardener . University Park: Penn State Extension, 2006.

Demchak, K., et al. Mid-Atlantic Berry Guide for Commercial Growers . University Park: Penn State Extension, 2013.

Dunn, J. W., J. W. Berry, L. F. Kime, R. M. Harsh, and J. K. Harper. "Agricultural Alternatives: Developing a Roadside Farm Market". University Park: Penn State Extension, 2006.

Dunn, J. W., J. K. Harper, and L. F. Kime. "Agricultural Alternatives: Fruit and Vegetable Marketing for Small-scale and Part-time Growers." University Park: Penn State Extension, 2009.

Handley, D., and M. Pritts (eds.). Strawberry Production Guide. NRAES-88. Ithaca, NY: Natural Resource, Agriculture, and Engineering Service, 1996.

Harper, J. K., S. Cornelisse, L. F. Kime, and J. Hyde. “Agricultural Alternatives: Budgeting for Agricultural Decision Making." University Park: Penn State Extension, 2013.

Kime, L. F., J. A. Adamik, E. E. Gantz, and J. K. Harper. “Agricultural Alternatives: Agricultural Business Insurance." University Park: Penn State Extension, 2004.

Lamont, W. J., J. K. Harper, A. R. Jarrett, M. D. Orzolek, R. M. Crassweller, K. Demchak, and G. L. Greaser. “Agricultural Alternatives: Irrigation for Fruit and Vegetable Production." University Park: Penn State Extension, 2001.

Lamont, W. J., M. D. Orzolek, J. K. Harper, L. F. Kime, and A. R. Jarrett. "Agricultural Alternatives: Drip Irrigation for Vegetable Production." University Park: Penn State Extension, 2012.

Lantz, W., H. Swartz, K. Demchak, and S. Fritz. Season-Long Strawberry Production with Everbearers for Northeastern Producers . SARE: Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education, 2010.

USDA-NASS. “ Noncitrus Fruits and Nuts: 2015 Summary ." July 2016.

Associations

North American Strawberry Growers Association 30 Harmony Way Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Canada E-mail: [email protected]

Pennsylvania Vegetable Growers Association 815 Middle Road Richfield, PA 17086 E-mail: [email protected]

• National Arboretum - USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

Prepared by Kathleen Demchak, senior extension associate in horticulture, Jayson K. Harper, professor of agricultural economics, Lynn F. Kime, senior extension associate in agricultural economics, and Willie Lantz, extension educator, University of Maryland Extension.

This publication was developed by the Small-scale and Part-time Farming Project at Penn State with support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Extension Service.

• Farm Management
• Production Economics

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Agriculture Fruit Farm Business Plan

Start your own agriculture fruit farm business plan

Farmers Group

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">, problem & solution, problem worth solving.

People want and need vegetables and related food with good taste and high nutritional quality. Our national diet is a disgrace. We have a huge problem of obesity.

Our Solution

We use present and future agricultural technology to produce organic, tasty, and nutritional vegetables. We start with an existing farm that has custom-innovated equipment. To that we add horticultural technology in the production of strawberries will allow double utilization of the climate controlled portion of the overhead.

Target Market

Competition, current alternatives.

Alabama is one of the premier farming areas of the eastern United States. This creates an intensely competitive environment with a large number of industry participants. Since almost all of the produce is considered to be commodities, and large scale buyers are more consolidated than the farmers themselves, overall margins are small and rivalries for wholesaler contracts are strong. Competitive threats come from three main segments:

• Imported vegetables of lower quality.>
• Mississippi pound raised vegetables.
• Alabama vegetable producers.

Direct competition in the individual buyers market segment comes from three farms in the immediate area including the Anniston farm, Organics-To-You farm, and the Terrance Livingston vegetable farm. Each of these competitors has produce stands as well as selling to local farmers’ markets. However, with the exception of Organics-To-You Farm, none of the others focus on a niche market and depend heavily on federal subsidies.

Our Advantages

The Farmers Group strategy is to profitably and efficiently utilize present and future agricultural technology in the production of vegetables. The company, by acquiring an existing profitable vegetable farm with all the necessary custom-innovated equipment, will gain a significant industry advantage. Additional application and utilization of horticultural technology in the production of strawberries will allow double utilization of the climate controled portion of the overhead. Farmers Group hopes to consolidate considerable goodwill already created by exercising the option of not adding another high-production facility to the present supply-demand scenario.

The company’s goals in the first year are to:

• Prepare the future site.
• Relocate and expand Green Acres vegetable system and get it operational.
• Integrate greens culture into the system.
• Have the composting system in full production by early spring of the second year.

The company’s long-term plan is to phase out whichever products are least lucrative and replace them with products that are practical and cost efficient.

Marketing & Sales

Marketing plan.

Farmers Group will initially market and supply its products to target customers. The company is further exploring marketing opportunities on the Internet. To this extent, the company would like to set up a website to market its products.

The company will utilize aggressive advertising strategies to further market its products. These strategies include the promotion of products through the sponsoring of spots on cooking shows and exhibitions, and also engaging prominent chefs to help promote this fledgling industry.

At Farmers Group, the sales process is primarily the same for vegetables as it is for composting products, in that both products will be mainly sold through wholesale marketing. As in the past, live shipments will be delivered by contract carriers in special oxygenated tanks carrying 8,000 vegetables or more, and will be continued as demanded. Farmers Group’s bagged manure products will be delivered and unloaded in sizable wholesale quantities by the pallet.

Smaller, more local orders will significantly increase the overall sales when the 300-450 live vegetables carrying tank system is put into service late in 2000 or early in 2001.

The company’s average sales cycle from first contact to closing of the sale is approximately 3 to 12 days for vegetable products. Farmers Group plans to shorten this cycle. Furthermore, the company estimates that from first contact to sale conclusion, the cycle for fresh strawberries will run 3 days or less. Composted products sale cycle should run from 3 to 12 days.

Locations & Facilities

The farm is located in Calhoun county approximately 4.5 miles outside of Jasper.

The operation will utilize:

• One large greenhouse, enclosing the vegetable area.
• Horticultural greenhouse.
• Filters, water treatment devices.
• Backwash facilities.
• Outdoor vegetable facilities.
• Business office building.

An additional portion of the operation will be the manure composting facility. Local and regional dairy operations have trouble with manure accumulations, and the company hopes to enter into contracts in removing the manure. Farmers Group will then turn this into a saleable product. The company plans to supply the region’s nursery outlets with a top-quality, premium garden and soil amendment product for area horticulture.

While at Mobile Farmers Vegetable Farm James Jackson, steadily used and experimented with compost and fertilized with manure of different kinds. The most important things with manure usage is to eliminate the viable weed seed drawback by thoroughly composting the manure, to add enough cellulose on product to bring it to the proper ratio and to bring its water content to proper levels. A properly composted manure product has no seeds that will germinate and proliferate in it. Additionally, a properly composted manure product has something a chemically formulated synthetic fertilizer does not have: enzymes. Enzymes are critical for producing a truly nutritious and superior flavored product. Research has shown that the superior flavor of a fruit or vegetable is closely related to vitamin content and folic acid content in green vegetables. 

The company is currently seeking contact with Alabama universities in order to learn about and acquire new hybrids of strawberries and vegetables that are hardier and grow faster in our local microclimates. These and other available species and systems will be constantly tracked.

In addition to the above, the company is seeking contacts at Universities in Italy and Germany that are involved in greens, and will continue the quest for the best flavored, large, and firm fall and winter strawberries.

Currently, Farmers Group is conducting research to test certain clay-sand-manure mixture levels to obtain better, cheaper bedding and agronomic soil mixtures that are more effective than the standard used in the industry in Alabama (Pine bark mulch-composted).

Equipment & Tools

The state-of-the-art vegetable equipment starting up in the new location utilizes revolutionary harvest designs that:

• Allow faster, longer growth
• Cut the harvest labor by over 80%
• Decrease loss in weight gain, and
• Eliminate weight loss from shock.

Farmers Group’s first line of production will be the green vegetable and red vegetable. During the summer months Farmers Group will be growing carrots, romaine lettuce, leeks, red onions, summer squash, and spinach. In the fall, production will center on pumpkins, winter squash, globe beets and winter greens. With the growth of the popular organic food niche, and the federal government’s new organic labeling policy, Farmers Group will focus its produce on the intermediate organic label. This means that approximately 70% of the food production process will be organic and all foods produced by Farmers Group will be eligible for the "contains organic ingredients" label. The company’s farm will have a capacity sufficient to produce in excess of 200,000 lbs. of vegetables per year.

Strawberries

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Farmers Group’s strategy is a combination of the two technologies during the cool winter months which will allow the utilization of normally wasted space in the greenhouses for the high price winter greens production. This will allow double cultivation of the greenhouses with almost no additional heating necessary in this climate.

Future Products

In the meantime, the company would like to explore the possibilities of crayfish production. Farmers Group believes this to be a high revenue venture with retail prices running in excess of $15.00 per pound in most places. The company also believes that if crayfish production is successful then it could become the number one endeavor of Farmers Group.

Currently there is a defunct fish farming production facility with all the necessary capital equipment approximately two miles from the current farm. Purchase of this facility would allow Farmers Group to begin production and to capitalize on this higher margin product. What makes this most attractive is the two ventures have significant joint cost potential, allowing for a reduction in marginal costs for all products and creation of real economies of scale that would provide Farmers Group with a competitive advantage.

Milestones & Metrics

Milestones table, key metrics.

• Sales and cost of sales
• Greenhouse output by crop
• overall output per crop
• Fertilizer usage
• Water usage

Ownership & Structure

Farmers Group’s management team is led by Mr. James Jackson, Business Manager, and the current manager of Mobile Farmers Vegetable Farm, who has extensive knowledge of the industry and has been tracking vegetable trends for 30 years.

The company’s management philosophy is based on responsibility and mutual respect. Farmers Group has an environment and structure that encourages productivity and respect for customers and fellow employees.

Management Team

Management will be responsible for supervising and participating in the daily operations of the facility. Management consists of:

• James Jackson, Business Manager, Full Time
• Terry Howard, Executive Director, Full Time
• Kevin Perry, Management Trainee, 3/4 Time
• Victor Green, Management Trainee, 1/4 Time

Daily Maintenance

This group will consist of the following:

• Henry Jones, Logistical Engineer, Full Time
• Colin Henry, Heavy Equipment, Full Time
• Michael Owen, Welder, 1/2 Time

Personnel Table

Financial plan investor-ready personnel plan .">, key assumptions.

Key Assumptions 

Nature and Limitation of Projections

This financial projection is based on sales volume at the levels described in the sales forecast section and presents, to the best of management’s knowledge, the company’s expected assets, liabilities, capital, and revenues and expenses. The projections reflect management’s judgement of the expected conditions and its expected course of action given the hypothetical assumptions.

Nature of Operations

The company is in the business of vegetable farming, greens cultivation, and composting. The company expects to be operating in 2000.

The company’s revenue is derived primarily from the sale of vegetables, strawberries, and bagged composted manure products.

The company’s expenses are primarily those of salaries, utilities, and insurance costs. Other expenses are based on management’s estimates and industry averages.

However, our initial projections indicate profitability well beyond realistic expectations. We’ve added a substantial "other expense" category, especially as we get on our feet in the second half of year one, to allow for realistic expenses … even if we can’t categorize them exactly. Even with these "other expenses" we are still unusually profitable, but we believe that’s because of our innovative technology. 

Revenue by Month

Expenses by month, net profit (or loss) by year, use of funds.

The company is seeking to raise of $830,000 for the purpose of financing the acquisition of the Green Acres Vegetable Farm and Mobile Farmers Vegetable Farm, facilities modifications, equipment, and funding operating expenses. Another $1,000,000 will be invested in the company by its four co-owners. The total is $1,830,000. The following is a breakdown of how the funds will be used:

Acquisition:

Property $1,300,000

Equipment System $400,000

Sub-total $1,700,000

Operating Expenses:

Salaries $80,000

Marketing and promotion $10,000

Other operating expenses $10,000

Sub-total $100,000

Total $1,800,000

Part of the $1,830,00 are the $684,600 startup expenses listed as net worth in Dec 2016. More details are: 

Legal $19,000

Facilities modification $300,000

Organic Herbicides/Pesticides $5,000

Consultants $25,000

Insurance $10,000

Research and development $25,000

Expensed equipment $250,000

Other $50,000

TOTAL START-UP EXPENSES $684,600

Sources of Funds

We will have four investors. Each investor has committed to giving us $250,000, totally $1,000,000. 

We will also have $400,000 in long term borrowing, we will have $400,000 in short term loan and $30,000 worth of bills to pay. 

Projected Profit & Loss

Projected balance sheet, projected cash flow statement.

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• Plants for Sale

Growing Strawberry Plants Commercially

Modified: Feb 11, 2022 by Mr. Strawberry · This post may contain affiliate links · 24 Comments

Growing strawberry plants can be an income-producing alternative to traditional crop farming. There are an abundance of pick-your-own strawberry farms scattered across the USA. Unfortunately, however, numerous farmers each year decide to take the plunge into commercial strawberry growing… and go bust.

If you are interested in growing strawberries commercially, I really recommend that you start by reading this guide .

That resource is an overview of the major aspects involved in starting a commercial strawberry farm. It focuses specifically on starting a strawberry farm in Idaho, but the principles and guidelines are applicable for most regions. The publication is CIS 931, which is one of the publications in a series titled Alternative Agricultural Enterprises: Production, Management & Marketing. It was written by D. L. Barney, B. B. Davis, and J. K. Fellman, and was published through the University of Idaho College of Agriculture’s Cooperative Extension Service and Agricultural Experiment Station.

The basic overview touches upon most of the considerations one should consider prior to venturing into the world of strawberry farming. It discusses:

• The traits of strawberry plants that dictate farming requirements, the basic variables of strawberry cultivars, and the replacement schedule of commercial strawberry fields.
• The environmental requirements necessary for successful commercial strawberry production, the necessity of selecting a region-appropriate strawberry variety, and the harvesting requirements.
• Successful management of a strawberry operation, cash flow considerations, costs and profit expectations, and the various methods of selling strawberries and marketing strawberries.
• The risks of starting a strawberry farm are also discussed as well as the first steps one should take if serious about venturing into the strawberry farming world. A recommended reading list is also provided.

Overall, that resource is a good starting point for anyone thinking about growing strawberries on a large scale or commercially.

Then, with that information as background, continue reading this post to get an idea of the sequential steps involved in growing strawberry plants commercially.

This sequence is followed by most commercial strawberry farmers. Of course, there is some variation between farms, but this overview will give a general idea of what is involved.

Prepare the Land for the Strawberry Plants

Planting the strawberry plants, care for strawberry plants during winter months, strawberry pollination on the farm, commercial strawberry harvesting, additional commercial strawberry farming requirements, growing strawberry plants commercially: conclusion.

In late August most commercial strawberry producers begin preparing their land the new planting of strawberries. Even though strawberry plants are perennial, most strawberry farmers treat them as annuals. After all the strawberries have been harvested, the land is fertilized and plowed. After fertilization and plowing, the soil is mounded into plateau rows and covered with black plastic. Usually, when the plastic is laid, drip tape irrigation is simultaneously placed in the ground. These tasks are accomplished with a specialized tractor-machine. The drip tape will be used to water and fertilize the strawberry plants as they grow and produce. This video shows the plastic and drip tape being laid:

Two other variants can be viewed here and here .

After the ground is prepared, the plants must be planted. This is still done by hand, usually about two weeks after the plastic mulch has been laid. At this time, a tractor is used to mechanically punch holes in the plastic at exact intervals. Workers usually either ride or follow behind the tractor and place plugs into the punched holes as can be seen in the next video:

Between 15,000 and 20,000 strawberry plants are planted per acre (17,500 average). For a large commercial strawberry farm, hundreds of thousands or even millions of strawberry plants will be planted each year.

The commercial operation will sustain their strawberry plants throughout the winter by fertilizing and watering them appropriately. Row covers will be used to protect them from freezing temperatures at night and damaging winds. Around the middle or end ofMarch the plants will begin blooming (depending on climate).

While strawberry plants are generally propagated by runners or division since the modern cultivars do not grow true from seed, the flowers still must be pollinated well in order to ensure plump and full strawberries. With a near-universal market for honey, many commercial strawberry growers have a small side business selling honey. The hives they maintain house the honey bees needed to ensure maximum crop yield, and the honey byproduct generates additional revenue for the entrepreneurial farmer.

Strawberries grow and ripen rather quickly and must be picked daily on a large commercial strawberry farm. The number of workers required to pick varies, but a general estimate is that 65 to 70 workers are needed to keep each 1,000,000 strawberry plants picked. See this link for Strawberry Picking Jobs . The first strawberries will ripen at different times as climate and weather dictate, but late April through mid-June is a typical season.

To maximize yield, many commercial strawberry farms test their plants throughout the growing season to ensure they are getting the nutrients they need to produce the best quality strawberries possible. Leaf samples are often collected weekly or bi-weekly and sent away for testing. Usually, states that have a significant number of strawberry farms will offer the testing at state university laboratories. Testing is important as too much or too little fertilizer will alter the taste and ripening of the berries.

A pump station is also used by most commercial growers. The station provides the water and nutrients the strawberry plants need through the drip irrigation lines laid when the plastic mulch was laid. This also provides an extra measure of liability protection as the water is filtered and tested to make certain all USDA specifications are met.

Growing strawberry plants commercially can be quite profitable. However, the time and equipment expenses involved in starting and maintaining a successful operation are not negligible. Understanding the costs involved and the cash flow of an operating strawberry farm is as crucial (if not more crucial) as understanding the strawberry plants themselves. But, we can all use more strawberries, so if you are ready to take the plunge into strawberry farming, go for it!

More Growing Strawberries

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Reader Interactions

February 29, 2020 at 7:51 pm

Mr. Strawberry, Do you have any reference for commercial greenhouse production of strawberries and the production costs and returns?

Lana rainwater

August 12, 2018 at 1:07 am

I have industrial size chicken housea that i would like to convert to grow strawberries. In southern mississippi. Do you think that is applicable?

Osvaldo Lopez

October 14, 2019 at 11:52 pm

I live in Monterey and I want to start a strawberry farm Does anyone have any advice for me any advice is appreciated also I my dad is a small flowers farmer and I work on is farm since I was a kid and know a little about farming but I want to know more about farming strawberry

September 21, 2016 at 5:21 am

What varieties of strawberry is used for commercial growing?

Mr. Strawberry

September 22, 2016 at 10:54 am

Gil, Many different varieties are used depending on the specific climatic conditions of the area where the growing occurs.

Mphahlele M

September 08, 2016 at 4:48 pm

When is it the appropriate time to prepare and plant strawberries in Southern Africa?

September 13, 2016 at 2:09 pm

Mphahlele, If you plant during your fall season in the southern hemisphere, usually in March, they will be able to establish themselves prior to the colder winter months. Doing so will allow them to produce a good harvest for you the following spring. Good luck!

Marge Gordon

August 06, 2016 at 6:58 am

we are commercial farmers in Zambia. tobacco, wheat, soya maize and cattle. we want to go into strawberries grown in green houses (to obviate the heavy summer rains that we have here). our high temps Oct-nov reach 36 C though once the rains start, latest mid November it cools down. winter night temps 8-9 C though not every night. generally around 12C. very little and seldom do we have frost. green houses would be covered with top plastic (to stop rain) and overall shade cloth when needed. what i need to know is: what variety should we look at and where will we be able to get our plants from? i saw that new cultivars dont grow from seed so can we fly in runners for example or would it have to be smallest plugs available? i would much appreciate your input. regards Marge

August 16, 2016 at 3:41 pm

Marge Gordon, To get the latest cultivars, you will likely need to get plant material imported somehow. The biggest obstacle you are likely to face is importing them. Customs policies for most countries (I’m not familiar with Zambia’s policies) prohibit the importation of living plants due to the risk of spreading exogenous diseases among the native flora. I’d recommend checking with your customs agency to see if it can be done, and what is involved, if so. Good luck!

Hans Oftedal

July 11, 2016 at 1:43 pm

I want to prepare a 1 acre field for plastic culture in southern Oregon. Is there a local business you know of that has the tractor implements used to lay the plastic and drip lines? We need to lease/rent or buy so we can properly prepare the fields? Any info would help!

July 20, 2016 at 2:15 pm

Hans Oftedal, I am not aware of any local businesses that have the equipment/implements available for rent. I’d recommend contacting the local agricultural extension agent for assistance. They are a goldmine of resources and could likely help you get everything rolling. Good luck!

February 09, 2016 at 3:09 pm

just got a question on the best strawberry for hot weather growing

February 11, 2016 at 9:15 am

steve, Strawberry plants are temperate by nature and simply don’t thrive in extremely hot and humid or tropical environments. With that said, Chandler strawberries are more heat-tolerant than many other varieties. Good luck!

Ms strawberry

December 12, 2015 at 6:50 pm

Actually, strawberries can grow in nigeria, very well infact. We have semi-temperate regions like jos and the mambila highlands. Farmers have been growing them commercially in jos. I am also looking into growing in mambila.

December 14, 2015 at 4:58 pm

Ms strawberry, Thanks for your report! Good luck!

December 04, 2015 at 4:37 pm

hey mr strawberry,i planted 6 thousand plants and i would want to know if i need a permit to sell them on streets or markets can u plz help me thnks

December 14, 2015 at 4:53 pm

maxx, It all depends on your local rules and regulations regarding such things. I’d recommend calling your local County Commission office or City Hall to inquire about whether or not a permit is required. Good luck!

November 18, 2015 at 8:16 pm

Mr strawberry man what’s a good company wear I could purchase black plastic for the strawberries beds? I want to buy wholesale.

November 20, 2015 at 8:43 am

fruitman, I’m not sure the best place to buy wholesale. I’d recommend stopping by your local farmer’s co-op or calling your area’s extension agent. They will likely be able to direct you to the best sources. Good luck!

October 12, 2015 at 1:10 pm

Hi Mr. Strawberry, i want to know if it can be planted in a Western African region like Nigeria or Ghana. Please reply

October 20, 2015 at 3:16 pm

lazarus, Unfortunately, strawberries don’t do well in either Nigeria or Ghana. They can be grown, but it is difficult to do it successfully enough to profit from their cultivation. Sorry!

March 04, 2018 at 12:59 am

someone who lives in Senegal is planting strawberries and is doing well. the reason i am reading this because i am interested in opening a strawberry fields in Guinea Conakry myself

crispulo s. magaspi

July 21, 2014 at 10:11 am

can it grow in tropical region

July 24, 2014 at 10:16 am

crispulo s. magaspi, Unfortunately, not very well. Strawberry plants prefer temperate climates. Sorry!

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Strawberry Farming: Best Practices and Profitable Strategies

Introduction.

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on achieving success in strawberry farming. At Agrownets, we are committed to providing you with the most valuable insights and expertise to help you excel in the world of agriculture. In this guide, we will explore the intricacies of strawberry farming, offering detailed information, expert tips, and best practices to help you establish and maintain a thriving strawberry farm.

Section 1: Understanding Strawberries

Strawberries, scientifically known as Fragaria × ananassa, are delicious and versatile fruits loved for their sweet taste. Before diving into the specifics of successful strawberry farming, let’s familiarize ourselves with the essential aspects of these delightful berries.

Strawberry Varieties

Strawberries come in various cultivars, each with its unique characteristics. Let’s take a look at one popular variety as an example:

Chandler : Chandler strawberries are known for their large fruit size and exceptional taste. They are highly sought after in both local and export markets due to their attractive appearance and excellent flavor profile. This variety performs well in moderate climates and is suitable for both commercial and home garden cultivation.

Ideal Climate and Soil Conditions

Strawberries thrive in moderate climates, preferring cool winters and mild summers. They require a significant amount of sunlight, ideally 6-8 hours per day, for optimal growth and fruit development.

When it comes to soil, strawberries prefer well-drained, loamy soil with a slightly acidic pH ranging between 5.5 and 6.5. Conducting a soil test and amending the soil as necessary will create an ideal environment for your strawberry plants.

Section 2: Preparing for Strawberry Cultivation

To ensure a successful strawberry farming venture, careful preparation and planning are crucial. This section covers the essential steps to set yourself up for success.

Land Preparation

• Site Selection : Choose a site that receives ample sunlight, is well-drained, and offers protection from strong winds. Avoid low-lying areas prone to waterlogging.
• Clearing the Land : Clear the selected land of weeds, rocks, and debris to create a clean and fertile ground for your strawberry plants.
• Soil Enrichment : Enhance soil fertility by incorporating organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. This improves nutrient availability and soil structure, providing a favorable growing environment for strawberries.

Propagation Methods

There are two primary methods of propagating strawberries:

• Runners : Many strawberry varieties produce runners, which are thin stems that develop from the mother plant and eventually form new plants. You can propagate strawberries by allowing these runners to take root in suitable locations.
• Transplants : Another approach involves purchasing healthy, certified strawberry plants from reputable nurseries and transplanting them into your prepared field.

Choose the propagation method that suits your resources, time constraints, and farming objectives.

Section 3: Planting and Crop Management

In this section, we will delve into the crucial steps involved in planting strawberries and effectively managing your crop.

Planting Strawberries

• Planting Density : Determine the appropriate spacing between plants based on the variety and available resources. Generally, spacing between plants ranges from 12 to 18 inches, with rows spaced 2 to 3 feet apart.
• Planting Depth : Set the plants at a depth where the crown (where the leaves emerge) is level with the soil surface. Avoid burying the crown too deep, as it may lead to rotting.
• Irrigation : Provide adequate irrigation to promote root development and maintain consistent moisture levels. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are recommended to deliver water directly to the root zone, minimizing wastage and reducingthe risk of fungal diseases.
• Mulching : Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the plants. Mulching helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weed growth, and prevents soil erosion.
• Fertilization : Develop a well-balanced fertilization plan based on soil test results and the specific nutritional requirements of strawberries. Apply fertilizers at the appropriate times to provide essential nutrients for healthy plant growth and bountiful yields.
• Weed Control : Regularly monitor and control weed growth, as weeds compete with strawberries for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Mechanical cultivation or mulching can effectively suppress weed growth.
• Pest and Disease Management : Stay vigilant for common pests like aphids, slugs, and mites, as well as diseases such as powdery mildew and gray mold. Implement integrated pest management (IPM) practices, including cultural controls, biological controls, and, if necessary, judicious use of organic or chemical treatments.

Section 4: Harvesting and Post-Harvest Care

The culmination of your hard work in strawberry farming is the harvest. This section highlights essential practices for harvesting and post-harvest care to ensure top-quality strawberries and maximize shelf life.

• Maturity Evaluation : Regularly assess the fruit’s color, size, and taste to determine optimal harvest time. Strawberries should be fully ripe but still firm, with vibrant red coloration.
• Gentle Handling : Handle strawberries with care during harvesting to prevent bruising and damage. Hold the fruit gently, picking them with the stem intact, and avoid excessive squeezing or stacking.

Post-Harvest Care

• Cooling : Promptly cool harvested strawberries to maintain their freshness and extend shelf life. Ideally, cool the berries within 1-2 hours after harvest by placing them in a cool storage area or using forced-air cooling methods.
• Sorting and Grading : Sort strawberries based on size, color, and quality. Remove any damaged or overripe berries to ensure only the best fruit reaches the market.
• Packaging and Storage : Pack strawberries in clean, ventilated containers or clamshell trays to protect them during transportation. Store them in a cool, refrigerated environment to preserve their flavor and extend shelf life.

Example Project: The Green Valley Strawberry Farm

Location: Green Valley, a picturesque region known for its moderate climate and fertile soil, has become an ideal location for strawberry farming. The farm is situated on a gently sloping terrain, providing excellent drainage and ample sunlight exposure.

Variety Selection: The Green Valley Strawberry Farm cultivates the Chandler variety due to its exceptional taste, large fruit size, and high demand in local and export markets. This variety has proven to thrive in the region’s climate, making it a preferred choice for commercial farming.

Land Preparation: Prior to planting, the farm underwent meticulous land preparation. The site was carefully selected to maximize sunlight and minimize exposure to strong winds. The land was cleared of weeds, rocks, and debris, creating a clean and fertile ground for strawberry cultivation. Organic matter, such as compost, was incorporated to enrich the soil and optimize nutrient availability.

Planting and Crop Management:

The farm adopted a meticulous approach to planting and crop management. Strawberry plants were spaced at a density of 12 inches within rows spaced 2 feet apart, providing ample room for growth and facilitating efficient harvesting and maintenance. Drip irrigation was implemented to deliver precise amounts of water directly to the root zone, ensuring optimum moisture levels while conserving water resources. Mulching with straw aided in retaining moisture, suppressing weed growth, and preventing soil erosion.

The farm implemented a comprehensive fertilization plan based on regular soil tests and the specific nutritional requirements of strawberries. By carefully monitoring and adjusting the fertilization schedule, the Green Valley Strawberry Farm ensured that their plants received the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and abundant yields. Regular weed control measures, including mechanical cultivation and mulching, prevented weed competition and maintained the cleanliness of the farm.

Pest and Disease Management:

The Green Valley Strawberry Farm implemented an integrated pest management (IPM) approach to effectively control pests and diseases. Regular scouting and monitoring helped identify any signs of common pests such as aphids, slugs, and mites. Beneficial insects were introduced as biological controls to reduce pest populations naturally.

In cases where pest pressure became significant, targeted organic treatments were applied judiciously, ensuring minimal impact on the environment and consumer safety. Additionally, the farm implemented preventive measures to combat diseases like powdery mildew and gray mold, such as proper sanitation practices, adequate plant spacing for air circulation, and regular removal of infected plant material.

Harvesting and Post-Harvest Care:

At the Green Valley Strawberry Farm, the harvest was conducted with utmost care and precision. Trained workers evaluated the fruit’s maturity based on color, size, and taste, ensuring that only fully ripe and high-quality strawberries were picked. Gentle handling techniques were employed to minimize bruising and maintain fruit integrity.

Immediately after harvest, the strawberries were taken to a designated cooling area within the farm. Forced-air cooling methods were employed to rapidly lower the temperature and preserve freshness. The berries were then sorted and graded based on their size, color, and quality. Damaged or overripe berries were removed, ensuring that only the finest fruit reached the market. The strawberries were carefully packaged in clean and ventilated containers or clamshell trays, protecting them during transportation.

To maintain the strawberries’ peak freshness and flavor, the Green Valley Strawberry Farm stored them in a cool, refrigerated environment. This ensured an extended shelf life and preserved their quality until they reached the consumers.

Earning Calculation for Strawberry Farming

Strawberry farming can be a profitable venture when managed efficiently. Here, we provide a simplified example of how to calculate potential earnings from a strawberry farm. Please note that actual earnings may vary depending on factors such as market demand, farm size, yield, pricing, and production costs.

• Yield per Acre : To determine the yield per acre, we’ll consider an average yield of 15,000 pounds per acre. This yield can vary depending on various factors such as cultivar, growing conditions, and management practices.
• Market Price : The market price of strawberries can fluctuate based on factors such as supply and demand, location, and quality. For this example, let’s assume a conservative market price of $2.50 per pound of strawberries.
• Total Revenue : To calculate total revenue, multiply the yield per acre by the market price per pound. Using our example figures, the total revenue per acre would be:Total Revenue = Yield per Acre x Market Price = 15,000 lbs x $2.50/lb = $37,500
• Production Costs : It is essential to consider the production costs involved in strawberry farming. These costs can include land preparation, irrigation, fertilizers, labor, pest control, packaging, marketing, and other miscellaneous expenses. For this example, let’s assume the production costs per acre amount to $15,000.
• Net Profit : To determine the net profit, subtract the production costs from the total revenue:Net Profit = Total Revenue – Production Costs = $37,500 – $15,000 = $22,500
• Return on Investment (ROI) : ROI is a measure of profitability and indicates the return on the investment made in the strawberry farm. To calculate ROI, divide the net profit by the production costs and multiply by 100 to express it as a percentage:ROI = (Net Profit / Production Costs) x 100 = ($22,500 / $15,000) x 100 = 150%

This simplified example demonstrates that, in this scenario, a strawberry farm with a yield of 15,000 pounds per acre, a market price of $2.50 per pound, and production costs of $15,000 per acre could generate a net profit of $22,500, resulting in an ROI of 150%.

It’s important to note that these figures are estimates, and actual earnings can vary significantly based on various factors as mentioned earlier. Conducting a detailed financial analysis specific to your farm’s circumstances, including accurate production costs and market research, will provide a more precise understanding of the potential earnings from strawberry farming.

Strawberry Farming Near Me

• Strawberry Farming Near Me : If you’re searching for strawberry farming locations near your area, you can explore local farms or agricultural regions that specialize in growing strawberries. This allows you to experience the joy of picking fresh strawberries directly from the fields and supporting local farmers.

Example: “Discover the Best Strawberry Farms Near You: Find Fresh Delights Just Around the Corner”

• Strawberry Farm Baguio : Baguio, a popular tourist destination in the Philippines, is renowned for its strawberry farms. Visitors can indulge in the delightful experience of picking strawberries and enjoying the scenic beauty of the farms in this charming city.

Example: “Experience Strawberry Paradise in Baguio: Delight in Farm-Fresh Berries and Breathtaking Views”

• Strawberry Farm Genting : Genting Highlands in Malaysia is known for its cool climate and picturesque strawberry farms. Tourists can engage in strawberry picking activities while enjoying the refreshing ambiance and scenic landscapes.
• Strawberry Farm Picking : Strawberry farm picking offers a hands-on experience, allowing individuals to pluck ripe and juicy strawberries directly from the plants. It’s a fun and engaging activity for families, friends, and strawberry enthusiasts.
• Strawberry Farm La Trinidad : La Trinidad, located in the Philippines, is famous for its strawberry farms. It offers a vibrant agricultural landscape where visitors can explore vast fields of strawberries and learn about the local farming techniques.
• Strawberry Farm Picking Near Me : If you’re looking for strawberry farm picking opportunities in your vicinity, there may be local farms or agricultural destinations that offer this delightful experience. Enjoy the thrill of hand-selecting your own strawberries and savoring their sweetness.
• Strawberry Farm Kundasang : Kundasang, located in Sabah, Malaysia, is renowned for its scenic beauty and thriving strawberry farms. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lush greenery, breathtaking landscapes, and indulge in strawberry picking amidst the cool mountain air.
• Strawberry Farm Cape Town : Cape Town, South Africa, offers a unique strawberry farming experience with its favorable climate and fertile soils. Strawberry farms in Cape Town showcase the region’s agricultural prowess and provide a delightful opportunity to taste the finest locally grown strawberries.

Example: “Cape Town’s Strawberry Delights: Explore the Vibrant Farms and Savor the Essence of South African Berries”

• Strawberry Farm Cameron : Cameron Highlands in Malaysia is synonymous with strawberry farming. The cool climate and high altitude create ideal conditions for cultivating strawberries, making it a must-visit destination for strawberry enthusiasts and nature lovers.
• Strawberry Farm George : George, a picturesque town in the Western Cape province of South Africa, is known for its thriving strawberry farms. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the region while indulging in strawberry picking and savoring the taste of freshly harvested berries.
• Strawberry Farm Baguio Tourist Spot : Baguio’s strawberry farms are not only a delight for strawberry enthusiasts but also a popular tourist attraction. With their vibrant fields of red berries and interactive picking experiences, these farms have become must-visit spots for tourists exploring the beauty of Baguio.
• Strawberry Farm Chambers Flat : Chambers Flat, located in Queensland, Australia, is home to thriving strawberry farms. Visitors can enjoy the serene countryside setting, pick their own strawberries, and immerse themselves in the charming agricultural atmosphere.
• Strawberry Farm Tagaytay : Tagaytay, a popular destination in the Philippines, offers beautiful strawberry farms where visitors can experience the joy of strawberry picking while enjoying the cool climate and breathtaking views of the Taal Volcano.

Example: “Tagaytay’s Strawberry Adventure: Pick, Taste, and Delight in Fresh Strawberries with a Majestic Volcano Backdrop”

• Strawberry Farm Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch, nestled in South Africa’s renowned wine region, is also home to thriving strawberry farms. Visitors can explore these farms, taste delectable strawberries, and discover the agricultural heritage of the area.
• Strawberry Farm Riyadh : Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, boasts strawberry farms where locals and visitors can experience the pleasure of picking their own strawberries and indulge in the flavors of freshly harvested berries.

Example: “Riyadh’s Strawberry Delights: Immerse Yourself in the Aroma and Taste of Locally Grown Saudi Arabian Berries”

• Strawberry Farm Nuwara Eliya : Nuwara Eliya, located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, is famous for its picturesque strawberry farms. Visitors can enjoy the cool climate, scenic landscapes, and indulge in strawberry picking while exploring this charming hill station.
• Strawberry Farm Taif : Taif, a city in Saudi Arabia, is known for its strawberry farms that thrive in its moderate climate. Visitors can witness the cultivation of high-quality strawberries and savor the taste of these locally grown gems.

Example: “Taif’s Strawberry Oasis: Experience the Bountiful Harvest of Saudi Arabia’s Prized Berries”

• Strawberry Farm Bacchus Marsh : Bacchus Marsh, located in Victoria, Australia, is home to flourishing strawberry farms. Visitors can immerse themselves in the scenic countryside, engage in strawberry picking, and relish the flavors of freshly picked berries.
• Strawberry Farm Auckland : Auckland, New Zealand, offers a variety of strawberry farms where visitors can enjoy the pleasures of strawberry picking, explore the scenic landscapes, and experience the freshness of locally grown strawberries.

Example: “Auckland’s Strawberry Delicacies: Discover the Juicy Joy of Hand-Picked Berries in New Zealand’s Vibrant City”

• Strawberry Farm Perth : Perth, Western Australia, is home to thriving strawberry farms that offer a delightful experience for visitors. With opportunities for strawberry picking and enjoying the region’s natural beauty, these farms provide a memorable outing for all.
• Strawberry Farm Mangere : Mangere, a suburb of Auckland, New Zealand, boasts strawberry farms that offer a delightful experience for locals and visitors. With lush fields of strawberries, visitors can enjoy picking their own berries and relish the freshness of locally grown produce.
• Strawberry Farm Langkawi : Langkawi, a beautiful island in Malaysia, is home to strawberry farms where visitors can enjoy a unique agricultural experience. From strawberry picking to tasting fresh berries, Langkawi’s strawberry farms offer a memorable journey for all.
• Strawberry Farm Mahabaleshwar : Mahabaleshwar, a hill station in India, is famous for its strawberry farms. Visitors can witness the cultivation of strawberries in the scenic landscapes and enjoy the flavors of these delectable berries.
• Strawberry Farm Cebu : Cebu, an island province in the Philippines, offers strawberry farms where visitors can experience the joy of strawberry picking and sample the fresh, mouth-watering strawberries grown in the region.

Example: “Cebu’s Strawberry Adventure: Delight in the Juicy Goodness of Locally Grown Berries in the Heart of the Philippines”

• Strawberry Farm Fraser Valley : Fraser Valley, located in British Columbia, Canada, is known for its thriving strawberry farms. Visitors can explore the lush fields, pick their own strawberries, and relish the flavors of these delicious locally grown berries.

Example: “Fraser Valley’s Strawberry Wonderland: Experience Farm-to-Table Freshness in British Columbia’s Breathtaking Landscape”

The Green Valley Strawberry Farm serves as an excellent example of implementing the best practices and techniques for optimal results. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide and adapting them to your specific location and circumstances, you are well-equipped to establish and maintain a thriving strawberry farm. Remember to stay vigilant, regularly assess your plants’ needs, and seek guidance from local experts to overcome any challenges that may arise along the way. Wishing you abundant harvests and a prosperous strawberry farming venture!

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How to Start a Berry Picking Farm

A berry farm can operate in one or both of the following ways: it can sell its berries to a distributor, such as a farmers market, or it can let customers into the field to pick the berries themselves, charging by the weight of the berries that the customers picked.

Learn how to start your own Berry Picking Farm and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a berry picking farm by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Berry Picking Farm
• Form your Berry Picking Farm into a Legal Entity
• Register your Berry Picking Farm for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Berry Picking Farm
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Berry Picking Farm
• Get Berry Picking Farm Insurance
• Define your Berry Picking Farm Brand
• Create your Berry Picking Farm Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your berry picking farm. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Berry Picking Farm Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your berry picking farm?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a berry picking farm.

Before opening your farm, there are a number of large items you will need to invest in.

• Land - A PYO farm requires a larger plot of land that is close enough for consumers to come and visit, with ample parking.
• Liability insurance - Because customers are visiting the farm, liability insurance is often higher for PYO farms.
• Tractors - Two 70– 80 hp tractors are recommended. Budget for approximately $65,000, if purchased new.
• Heavy duty mower - $1,000
• Fertilizer spreader - $1,200
• Herbicide sprayer - a 200 gallon sprayer will cost approximately $2,000
• V-bladed sweep plow - $2,000
• Drain runner (spinner) - $2,000
• Land clearing - Average cost is $3,000 per acre
• Ditching & drainage - Average cost is $120 per acre
• Forming beds - $25 per acre
• Plants - You will need approximately 1210 per acre at a cost of $0.50 per plant
• Irrigation pond - The required number of irrigation ponds is determined by the size of your farm.
• Irrigation well
• Sprinklers, pipes and valves - Average cost is $120,000
• Pumps - Cost is $9,500 per pump
• Marketing supplies

What are the ongoing expenses for a berry picking farm?

Until you’ve completed your sixth year, you will have purchases that must be made on an annual basis. For example, your second year, you will need to invest in an airblast sprayer, which will set you back approximately $7,600 and farm trailers for transporting picking trays. Experienced farmers recommend budgeting for four trailers at $1,000 a piece. In years three through six, your budget should include between $50,000 and $200,000 in additional equipment.

Additional ongoing expenses include:

• Weed, disease, and insect control - costs will include labor and materials
• Land lease or mortgage

Who is the target market?

Restaurants or wholesale food distributors will make up the bulk of your commercial berry business. You will be dealing with seasonal high volume sales. For the you-pick farm, your clientele will be more adventurous consumers who enjoy the time spent harvesting their own fruits. This customer will be looking for high quality berries and an inviting atmosphere from the owner and staff.

How does a berry picking farm make money?

Berry farms generate revenue from the sale of their produce. If selling to a wholesale retail buyer, the pricing is by flat. You-pick sales are by the fruit and by the pound.

The average price for a flat of berries at market is $14. Pick your own customers are charged per pint or by the pound. The average price for a pint is $4.78. Per pound prices average between $3.48 per pound and $4.92 per pound.

How much profit can a berry picking farm make?

There are a number of factors that affect your berry farm’s profitability. For instance, how you structure your business, the health of your soil, the type of berry you grow, the weather, and your irrigation system all affect your annual profits. The average berry farmer reports a loss for the first few years. After that, however, average profits are reported at between $1.3 million and $2.8 million.

How can you make your business more profitable?

There are a number of strategies you can implement to increase your farm’s profitability:

• Bake, can, freeze, and/or dehydrate your berries.
• Open your farm to the public for entertainment, particularly during the holiday season. This could include - petting zoos, hayrides, and holiday festivals.
• Offer educational tours and seminars
• If you have enough land, grow corn and host a corn maze during Halloween.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your berry picking farm is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

Federal Business Licensing Requirements

There are federal regulations regarding what can and cannot be added to, sold as, and processed with food. Attached is a resource from the Food and Drug Administration detailing the process of starting a food business: How to Start a Food Business

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a berry farm business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Certificate of Occupancy

A berry farm business is generally run out of a plot of land. Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO).  A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

• If you plan to lease a location :
• It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
• Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a berry farm business.
• After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
• If you plan to purchase or build a location :
• You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
• Review all building codes and zoning requirements for your business’ location to ensure your berry farm business will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.

Food Regulations

When selling food, you will need licensing from a local health department; all establishments serving food are required to pass a health inspection. Tips for faring well on a health inspections

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Berry Picking Farm needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Berry Picking Farm.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a berry picking farm

Your marketing strategy will be defined by the type of berry farm you decide to open. For a PYO farm, well-displayed road signs are recommended as the best form of marketing. Word-of-mouth will ensure a steady influx of both new and returning clients. Experienced farmers indicate that billboards, radio, and television ads are often not effective.

Regardless of which type of farm you open, the Internet will also serve as an effective marketing tool. Make sure your farm is listed in online registries such as Yelp and Google Business. Active social media accounts are also a great way to reach new and current customers, keeping them apprised of the latest news. Many farmers have also found success advertising through county fairs and craft shows. Opening your farm to elementary school classes for field trips is another great way to let the public know what you offer.

How to keep customers coming back

As a general rule, 80% of your business comes from 20% of your customer base. To ensure a positive word-of-mouth, make sure your farm is safe and clean. Your staff should be friendly and knowledgeable.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

Individuals with farming experience and the acreage to grow berry bushes and plants will be some of the best fits. Having experience or training in agricultural management and business is also a desired skill set. If you choose to open a pick your own (PYO) farm, experience in customer service and public speaking can also prove beneficial.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a berry picking farm?

Since you are running a farm, much of the day-to-day activities will consist of tending to the fruit trees and plants. There will also be some amount of time marketing and selling your produce. And, if customers are picking fruit in your farm, customer interaction will be an important part of your routine. In particular, you will be:

• Feeding, mulching, and planting crops
• Pest control and pruning
• Monitoring and repairing irrigation systems
• Routine maintenance and upkeep on farm equipment
• Ordering fertilizer and re-stocking supplies
• Interacting with customers on social media or a website
• Interacting with you-pick customers
• Marketing and promotions
• Harvesting and packaging produce
• Managing your staff

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful berry picking farm?

Being well-versed in agriculture techniques and trends, particularly for fruit-bearing plants, is usually necessary. Some berries will demand an attentive farmer to thrive. Being-detail oriented in your farming and business dealings will be equally helpful in your success. You must also be a determined and hard-working individual. Farming requires equal parts intelligence and elbow grease. It is also necessary to understand the business of farming and how to read and predict consumer trends.

What is the growth potential for a berry picking farm?

Generally, berry farms are popular, as many consumers enjoy fresh fruits. The you-pick market has become particularly popular as of late. Farming can be an all-consuming endeavor, but berry farms can be modest in size, yet still give profitable returns. For many larger farms, they not only offer fresh produce, but also job opportunities to many local and regional workers.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

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Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a berry picking farm?

The following are some tips from established berry farmers:

• Keep in mind that many crops take between one and three years before they start producing enough to really turn a profit. Strawberries, raspberries, and ground cherries produce heavier harvests. Blueberries and blackberries are easier to grow.
• It’s important to keep in mind that PYO farms are considered “seasonal,” as they do not do as well when the economy is up. This is happening less now though, as people are becoming more conscious of the preservatives that go into fruits and veggies that are pre-packaged.
• Because weather is also a factor, experienced farmers urge you to consider having a farm that offers a mixture of both services. That way, if weather is bad one weekend, you don’t lose out on one-fourth of your business.
• For a PYO farm, be sure to have a phone number dedicated to your business, with a voice mail that provides information regarding your prices and hours of operation.
• Weekends and summer holidays will be your PYO’s busiest times, so make sure you are open.

How and when to build a team

To build a successful farm, you will need to assemble a team from the start. PYO farms require longer hours, but a smaller staff, as the sorting and packaging is done by the customer. Farmers cite labor costs at an average of $8 per hour, per employee. This will vary, depending upon your region.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• North American Strawberry Growers Association
• North American Raspberry and Blackberry Association
• Franchise opportunity with Berrybrook Farm

Real World Examples

• Michigan farm
• Georgia farm
• North Carolina farm

Further Reading

• Tips for starting a berry farm
• A guide to different kinds of berries you can grow
• Learn about more Family Fun Business Ideas!

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Strawberry Farming Business Plan

Strawberry farming business plan presentation, free google slides theme and powerpoint template.

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Strawberry Farming Business Plan

$59.00 $39.00 2 reviews

Resources On Strawberry Farming

• Financial Model
• Value Proposition
• One-Page Business Plan
• SWOT Analysis
• Business Model

Marketing Plan

• Bundle Business Plan & Fin Model
• Description

Executive Summary

Products & services, market analysis.

• Management Plan
• Financial Plan

SweetBerry Farms is addressing a crucial challenge faced by the strawberry farming industry - the lack of high-quality, organically-grown strawberries available for customers. Existing suppliers are not meeting the growing demand for sustainably-farmed, premium berries, leading to a gap in the market. Our mission is to fill this need by utilizing innovative technologies and sustainable farming practices to grow the highest-quality, organically-grown strawberries for our customers. Additionally, we aim to offer value-added services such as seasonal farm visits to give customers an immersive experience and connection to their food source.

SweetBerry Farms aims to provide high-quality, organically-grown strawberries that meet the increasing demand for healthier food choices among consumers. Our hand-picked strawberries are not only intended for direct consumption but as ingredients in various food products such as jams, sauces, and baked goods. To fit diverse customer preferences, we offer value-added services like seasonal farm visits for customers to participate in strawberry picking themselves.

We are committed to adopting sustainable farming practices and innovative technologies to ensure our produce is always of the highest quality. By providing excellent customer service and utilizing strong branding techniques, we aim to become a leading strawberry farming supplier in California and eventually the whole United States.

Target Market

Competition.

In the strawberry farming industry, SweetBerry Farms will be competing against both local and national suppliers who offer fresh, organically-grown strawberries. There are also alternative products such as frozen strawberries, strawberry preserves and jams and other fruit-based products made from berries like blueberries and raspberries. Our aim is to differentiate ourselves from the competition with superior quality, innovative technology and high standards of sustainability, that give our customers a valuable and meaningful experience.

Financial Summary

Key highlights of the financial plan for SweetBerry Farms includes:

• 25% growth in revenues in the first year of operations
• Projected revenues of $800,000 by the end of year three
• Projected revenues of $2.5 million by year five
• Majority of profits earmarked for investments in R&D, marketing and supply chain expansion
• Looking to raise $500,000 in seed funding, primarily consisting of equity investment
• Funds to be used for land acquisition, equipment purchases, and hiring skilled labor in the first year of operations

With a focus on scalability and strong branding, SweetBerry Farms aims to become the leading supplier of high-quality strawberries in the US. The financial plan outlines a clear path for growth and profitability, with strategic investments in R&D, marketing and supply chain expansion to support continued success in the industry.

Funding Requirements

SweetBerry Farms is seeking $500,000 in seed funding, primarily consisting of equity investment.

• $250,000 for land acquisition and development
• $150,000 for equipment purchases and maintenance
• $50,000 for hiring and training of skilled labor
• $50,000 for initial marketing and branding efforts

These funds will be used to finance our operations in the first year, with the majority of the profits being reinvested in R&D, marketing, and supply chain expansion in the future.

We believe that with the right funding, SweetBerry Farms can achieve our goal of becoming the leading supplier of high-quality strawberries in the US.

Milestones and Traction

SweetBerry Farms has developed a detailed roadmap identifying specific milestones to achieve over the next five years. The following table outlines our current progress and targets for each year:

We will carefully track our progress towards these milestones and make adjustments as necessary to ensure we remain on track to become the top strawberry farming supplier in the country.

Problem Worth Solving

The strawberry farming industry faces several challenges, including declining yields, rising production costs and increasing consumer demand for organic and sustainably-grown crops. Additionally, existing strawberry farms are often located far from urban centers, making it difficult to provide fresh, high-quality strawberries to customers in a timely manner.

At SweetBerry Farms, we aim to solve these problems by adopting sustainable farming practices and utilizing innovative technologies to increase yields and reduce costs. Our location in sunny Santa Barbara, California allows us to provide our customers with the freshest, organically-grown strawberries available. By offering direct-to-consumer sales, as well as value-added services, we are able to provide a unique and convenient experience for our customers, while supporting local agriculture.

Our Solution

Validation of problem and solution, product overview.

The strawberry farming industry has a number of established players, ranging from large-scale commercial farms to smaller organic operations. While many of these businesses provide high-quality strawberries, we believe that SweetBerry Farms sets itself apart with our focus on sustainability and innovation.

Unlike many competitors, we prioritize organic, environmentally-friendly farming practices that minimize negative impact on our surrounding ecosystem. Additionally, we are investing in cutting-edge technologies to improve our production methods and ensure that our strawberries are of the highest quality.

We also differentiate ourselves by offering direct-to-consumer sales, allowing customers to purchase our freshly-picked strawberries either for immediate consumption or for use in a variety of food products. We also offer the unique experience of seasonal farm visits, allowing customers to participate in the strawberry picking process and learn more about our farming practices.

Ultimately, we believe that our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and customer experience will set us apart from competitors and position us as the premier provider of high-quality strawberries in California and beyond.

Roadmap: Products & Services

Our focus at SweetBerry Farms is to provide the highest-quality, organically-grown strawberries to our customers, using sustainable farming practices and innovative technologies. Here is a table outlining the steps we have taken so far and our plans for future growth:

With these steps, we aim to become the leading supplier of high-quality strawberries in California and eventually, the entire United States.

Market Segmentation

Market segmentation is the process of dividing a market into smaller groups of consumers with similar needs and characteristics. It is an essential aspect of the market analysis since it helps identify the potential target customers for the business. In the strawberry farming business, the potential customer groups are:

Target market segment strategy

Our ideal customer for our strawberry farming business would be health-conscious individuals who value fresh, locally-sourced produce. They may be families with young children, farmers market shoppers, or those who prioritize sustainability and supporting small businesses.

We will also target local businesses such as bakeries, restaurants, and cafes who use strawberries in their products. By building relationships with these businesses, we can establish a consistent customer base and generate additional sales.

To reach our target market, we will attend various farmers markets, distribute flyers to health food stores, and advertise through social media and local publications.

Key Customers

Our ideal customer archetype will be health-conscious individuals who prioritize fresh and organic produce. They will be advocates for sustainable and locally-sourced food, and are willing to pay a premium for high-quality produce. Additionally, we will target local restaurants and cafes that prioritize farm-fresh ingredients in their menus. These key customers will not only be repeat buyers, but also help spread positive word-of-mouth and build our reputation within the community.

Future Markets

Based on the analysis of the market trends and the demand for organic strawberries in the region, the potential market for our strawberry farming business looks promising. With the increasing awareness of the benefits of organic produce, there is a growing demand for healthy and sustainable food options, which our farm can provide.

Our business strategy, which focuses on utilizing sustainable farming practices and providing high-quality produce, aligns perfectly with the needs and preferences of our target market. We aim to establish long-term relationships with our customers through consistent product quality and exceptional customer service.

In addition, we plan to expand our market reach by partnering with local retailers and creating an online presence to increase our visibility in the market. This will allow us to tap into a wider customer base and maximize our sales potential.

Overall, our business strategy is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for organic strawberries, and we are optimistic about the future prospects of our business.

In order to successfully launch a strawberry farming business, it is important to conduct a thorough market analysis to identify potential competitors in the industry. The following table outlines our top competitors:

As seen from the table, the industry is highly competitive with well-established players. It will be essential for our business to differentiate itself by offering superior quality, organic produce to stand out in the market.

Marketing and Sales Plan

Our marketing and advertising strategy will aim to increase brand awareness and drive sales through various channels. Our target audience will be local consumers who prioritize fresh, locally grown produce.

Location and Facilities

Equipment and tools, management and organization, organizational structure.

The following table provides an overview of the structure of our strawberry farming business, including the roles and responsibilities of specific employees and the flow of information between levels of the organization.

This structure ensures clear lines of communication and accountability throughout the organization, enabling us to optimize our performance and achieve our strategic objectives.

Management Team

The success of our strawberry farming business will largely depend on the skills and expertise of our management team. We anticipate taking on high-level management candidates with relevant experience in the agriculture industry. Below, we have created a table of potential candidates we are considering for these roles:

We will conduct rigorous interviews and assessments to ensure that we select the best possible candidates for our management team. Ultimately, we believe that a strong management team is critical to the success of our strawberry farming business.

Management Team Gaps

At present, while we have a robust and skilled core team managing our strawberry farming operation, we do acknowledge certain positions or areas of expertise that we currently lack within our management team.

For instance, we recognize that we do not currently have any candidates ready to fill positions related to environmental science and sustainability within our team. While we do have measures in place to operate with an eco-friendly outlook, we understand the importance of having someone with extensive experience in the field. We believe that the addition of a qualified environment and sustainability expert in our team would bring invaluable insight to our goal of creating an environmentally responsible and sustainable farming enterprise.

Additionally, we would benefit from a marketing professional who can spearhead our marketing campaigns, strengthen our brand positioning, and carry out effective communication strategies to reach various sales channels.

As we continue to grow and expand our business, we will be focusing on filling these management team gaps with the right candidates who share our vision and values, and who can bring in the necessary resources and expertise to strengthen our team further.

Personnel Plan

In order to effectively run the operations of our strawberry farming business, we will require the following positions:

We will hire additional employees as needed, particularly during the peak harvest season.

Company History and Ownership

SweetBerry Farms is a new startup venture in the strawberry farming industry located in sunny Santa Barbara, California. Founded in 2021 by a team of experienced agronomists and business professionals, our company's mission is to provide the highest-quality, organically-grown strawberries to our customers.

The idea for SweetBerry Farms was born out of a passion for sustainable agriculture and a desire to create a more environmentally-friendly and socially-conscious farming practice. After conducting extensive research and analysis of the industry, our team identified a gap in the market for organic, high-quality strawberries, and decided to seize the opportunity by founding SweetBerry Farms.

The company is privately owned, with the founding team holding a majority stake in the business. We are committed to building a strong and cohesive team of employees, who share our vision and values, and who are critical to the success of our business. As we grow and expand our operations, we will continue to prioritize ethical and sustainable farming practices, while striving to provide the highest level of quality and customer satisfaction.

Our management team has developed a detailed roadmap of specific goals and objectives that will help us manage and steer our business. We have laid out our milestones in a table format, including target dates and responsible team members. Our milestones include:

• Securing $500,000 in seed funding by the end of Q1
• Acquiring land and equipment by the end of Q2
• Hiring a skilled labor force by the end of Q3
• Leveraging sustainable farming practices and innovative technologies in production methods by Q4
• Launching our flagship product, hand-picked strawberries, by the end of Q1 in year 2
• Expanding our product offerings to include value-added services, such as seasonal farm visits, by the end of Q2 in year 2
• Increasing production output by 50% and generating $800,000 in annual revenues by year 3
• Scaling our operations and expanding our supply chain to become the leading strawberry farming supplier in California by year 5, generating $2.5 million in annual revenues

Key Metrics

As a strawberry farming business owner, it is important to monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) that help you gauge the overall performance and health of your business. These KPIs include:

• Revenue per acre
• Cost of production per acre
• Yield per acre
• Percentage of crop lost due to disease or pests
• Customer retention rate

By regularly tracking these metrics, you can identify areas where you need to improve and make informed decisions about the operation of your business.

Financial Plan and Metrics

Sales forecast.

Below is a projected sales forecast for the first three years of SweetBerry Farms:

Starting and operating a strawberry farming business requires various expenses. All expenses related to starting a business are called startup costs, whereas all costs involved in running the business are known as operational expenses.

Startup Costs

The following is a table of expected costs to start a strawberry farming business:

Operational Expenses

The following is a table of expected costs to operate a strawberry farming business:

Projected Profit and Loss

Projected cash flow, projected balance sheet.

Here is a table representing the expected balances for business assets, liabilities, and equity in the next three years:

These projections are based on the expected growth of the business and the amount of investment that we will receive. We believe that we will be able to maintain a healthy balance between assets, liabilities, and equity throughout the years and continue to grow our strawberry farming business.

Our strawberry farming business will require a team of dedicated and skilled individuals to ensure smooth operations of the business. The personnel plan includes the following:

• Farm Manager: We will hire a full-time farm manager with experience in strawberry farming. The manager will oversee day-to-day operations of the farm, manage and train employees, and handle marketing and sales activities. The salary for this position is estimated to be $60,000 per year.
• Field Workers: We will hire seasonal field workers to help with planting, harvesting, and maintenance activities. The workers will be paid an hourly rate of $15, which is in line with industry standards. The number of workers hired will depend on the size of the farm and the workload.
• Admin and Accounting Assistant: We will hire a part-time admin and accounting assistant to handle financial reporting and data entry tasks. The assistant will work 20 hours per week and will be paid an hourly rate of $20.

Each employee will be given proper training on job responsibilities, safety measures, and best agricultural practices to ensure quality product output. Regular evaluations and feedback sessions will be held to promote employee growth and development.

Use of Funds

Exit strategy.

As the strawberry farming business grows and begins to generate profits, it is important to have a plan for eventually exiting the business. There are a few possible exit strategies to consider:

• Acquisition: Finding a larger agricultural company interested in purchasing the strawberry farming business and its assets.
• Selling: Putting the business up for sale on the market and finding a buyer who is willing to take over operations.
• Passing along to a family member/employee: If there is a trusted family member or employee who wishes to take over the business, it may be possible to transfer ownership and provide training to ensure a smooth transition.

Regardless of the chosen exit strategy, it is important to plan ahead and make sure all legal and financial obligations are met before closing the business.

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Strawberry Farming Project Report, Cost, Profit Guide

Table of contents, introduction to strawberry farming project report, plant and its properties of strawberry, cultivars or varieties of strawberry, soil and climatic requirements for growing strawberries, land preparation and planting  of strawberries, propagation of strawberries, manure and fertilizer requirement for growing strawberries, irrigation requirements for growing strawberries, intercultural practices of strawberry garden, pest and disease management of strawberry orchard, harvesting and yield of strawberries, post-harvest handling of strawberry fruits, assumptions of strawberry farming project report:, loans and subsidies for strawberry farming in india.

If you are planning for profitable strawberry farming, then you can go through this Strawberry Farming Project Report .

Strawberry is the fruit obtained from a flowering plant belonging to a hybrid genus (Fragaria x Ananassa). Basically, the cultivated variety of Strawberry is a cross between two different varieties i.e. Fragaria Chiloensis from western America and Fragaria Virginiana from Eastern America. This is a plant native to temperate regions. The first fruit was grown wild in France, later it was cultivated for various purposes. It is now being cultivated widely throughout Europe, United States, and Canada.  In India, we can find Strawberry farms in Nainital, Dehradun, Mahabaleshwar, Kashmir valley, Kalimpong and Bangalore. The fruit of this plant is famous for its fragrance and flavor. The use of Strawberry is found in different products like food, beverages, confections, perfumes, and cosmetics.

The Strawberry farming business can be profitable only if it is marketed well. Farmers in India face difficulty in managing the warm winter climates. The All India Strawberry Growers’ Association is greatly concerned about the decrease in the production of Strawberries during the past few years and is taking measures to improve the quality and quantity of production. Strawberry Farming in Greenhouse or Strawberry Farming in Polyhouse adapts similar conditions of outdoor Strawberry cultivation. However, Hydroponic Greenhouse Strawberry farming will have a different set of procedures.

This Strawberry farming guide or  Strawberry farming project report gives details about its farming methods and at the end of the discussion, one can find the investment (Cost of cultivation of Strawberry in India) and profit details (Strawberry farming profit per acre in India) for farming Strawberries.

The Strawberry is a low-growing herbaceous plant having a fibrous root system and a crown with basal leaves. The plant is also considered to be perennial in nature because its leaves remain green even during winter. The leaves of the plant have saw-tooth edges with a hairy texture. The flowers of the plant are either white or reddish in colour. The flowers grow in small clusters on a slender stalk arising from the axils of the leaves. The roots of the plant become woody as the plant ages. The mother crown of the plant develops runners that touch the root and the ground; this is how the plants grow vegetatively.

Strawberry is not a true berry, but it is considered to be an accessory fruit. The fruit of Strawberry consists of too many seeds and develops from the enlarged flower receptacle. The fruit is heart-shaped and the flesh within is either white or dark red depending on the cultivar. The length of the fruit ranges between 2 to 5 cm.

The fruit is expected to contain very few calories and carbohydrates. They also have low monosaturated fat content but do contain omega-3 fatty acids and polysaturated fat. The fruit is also good in protein and mineral content.

Strawberries are generally distinguished into three different categories based on the period they grow such as June bearing, ever-bearing, and day-neutral. There are many varieties of Strawberries available, but out of those some resistant varieties used for cultivation are:

• Fruits are large with a firm skin
• The weight of the fruit is 18 g
• Fruits have good flavour and color
• Used in desserts
• Tolerant to viral attacks and physical damages
• The weight of the berry is 9 g
• The fruit matures very fast
• Tolerant to viral attacks
• The fruit is large with normal firmness
• Produce too many runners
• The weight of the berry is 6 g
• The fruit is of good quality
• Tolerant to attacks
• Fruit is obtained even in the off-season
• The fruit is large with conical or block-shaped
• Good for desserts
• Fruit is bright red in colour and conical in shape
• The taste of the fruit is sweet with an acidic tinge
• The weight of the berry is 15 g
• Good plant for runner production
• Fruit is a day-neutral and early ripening variety
• Overbearing variety
• Red coloured fruit with medium size
• Excellent flavour
• Fruit is sweet or slightly acidic to taste
• The weight of the berry is 25 g
• Red-colored fruit with large size and firm skin
• Tolerant to attacks and diseases

Some ever-bearing varieties of Strawberries are Albion, Aromas, Diamante, Everest, Evie2, Evie 3 Fort Laramie, Hecker, Mara des Bois, Monterey, Portola, Quinault, Tribute, Tristar, San Andreas, and seascape

It is very clearly known that Strawberries are grown under the sun, but high summer temperatures have a negative impact on fruit size and quality. Cool temperature favors fruit growth. The roots are also expected to experience less stress in cool climatic conditions. Environmental parameters like temperature, photoperiod, and light intensity are of extreme importance during Strawberry cultivation. The optimum day temperature should be around 22 to 25˚C and the night temperature is expected to be around 7 to 13˚C. Frost is dangerous for the plants.

Strawberry plants should never be allowed to wilt due to lack of water in the soil, so a sufficient volume of water is to be supplied to the plants. In dry areas or areas with winter rainfall supplemental irrigation is to be provided during the summer. Too much rain or water supply can split the fruit, so care must be taken to supply water just necessary for the plants.

The plants require well-drained sandy loam or loamy soil with an average pH range of around5 to 5.5. If the land is prepared well before planting and if a sufficient amount of compost or organic manure is added to the soil, then the plants can be grown in clayey soils as well. Soils which are too saline in nature and have a water logging problem are not suitable for cultivating Strawberries.

The land selected for cultivating Strawberries should have adequate air and water drainage facilities. Low lying areas should not be preferred for these plants as they are subject to frost and other damages. Land that was previously used for planting solanaceous crops like Tomato , Potato , Pepper , and Eggplant , etc. should be avoided for farming Strawberries else they should be fumigated properly before planting Strawberry plants. Land which was used for planting sod should also be avoided.

Stones, weeds, etc. in the land area should be removed and it should be ploughed thoroughly to improve aeration. Matured compost is added to the soil for improving its fertility. Sometimes lime is also added to the soil structure to correct its pH range.

Planting strawberries should be done carefully such that the crown of the plant is above the soil surface. Proper depth estimation should be made during planting because too deep or too shallow planting can be dangerous. The planting is generally done in double rows with an in-row and diagonal spacing of 20 x 20 cm. The spacing between the plants should be around 30 x 30 cm for early planting and 10 x 10 cm for late planting. Depending on the planting density a maximum of 66,000 plants can be accommodated in a hectare of land. Before planting, raised beds are prepared on the land and are mulched with plastic material. The dimensions of the raised bed should be such that the width is 60 cm, height is 45 cm and the pathway is 50 cm. The mulch is a black plastic sheet of about 100 m in length, 1 m wide, and 30 to 40 microns thickness. Organic substances like straw can also be used as mulch and are expected to be much cheaper than plastic mulch material. Transplanting is done usually in the months of March-April, September-October, or January-February. Apart from the raised bed method Strawberries can also be planted in other methods like matted row, hill system, spaced row, plastic mulch base, etc.

Propagation of Strawberry plants is done through runners. Production of runners should be done separately because they tend to produce true-to-type plants and carry most of the diseases to the new plants. Runners for Strawberry plants should be grown on land where Strawberry plants have not been grown for 3 to 4 years. The runners from the plant should be picked in the month of September and planted into polybags containing a mixture of soil, sand, and well-decomposed farmyard manure (FYM) for about one month.

Lime and phosphorous elements should not be added to the farm after planting if they have already been applied during the land preparation. The farm has to be supplemented using nitrogen and potassium fertilizers throughout the farming season. The level of potassium and nitrogen within the soil should be around 20 to 30 mg/kg and 40 to 80 mg/kg respectively.

Fertigation is the best and economical way of fertilizing plants. 12: 61:00 of NPK @ 500 grams should be applied every alternate day after 20 to 50 days of planting, similarly the remaining days 13:00:45 of NPK @ 500 grams should be supplied. After 50 to 60 days of planting 19: 19: 19 of NPK fertilizer @ 500 grams should be supplied on alternate days (Monday, Wednesday & Friday) and calcium nitrate @ 250 grams is supplied on the remaining days (Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday). 60 to 100 days after planting of Strawberry plants, 16:08:24 of NPK @ 500 grams is supplied on alternate days and 00:00:50 of NPK @ 250 grams should be supplied on the other days. The plants should be supplemented with 12 g of micronutrients once a week.

The time and frequency of irrigation depend on certain factors like soil type, water quality, the weather of the location, season, type of fruit, mulch material , and the type of irrigation system used. If planting is done on sandy soils, then water is supplied in small quantities at regular intervals of time i.e. 2 to 3 days. For clayey or loamy soil types, heavy irrigation is given with an interval of 4 to 5 days between each cycle. Strawberry plants grown in warmer climates need more irrigation when compared to those in colder areas. Different irrigation systems like overhead sprinklers, micro-sprinklers, and drip irrigation can be used for Strawberry farming.

If a drip system is being used, then it should have 1 or 2 lateral lines of 16 mm thickness and drippers should be attached at every 30 cm. The discharge rate from the drippers should be around 2 to 4 liters per hour.

Weeds in the farmland can be either controlled by mechanical or chemical techniques. Hand hoeing is a labor-intensive task and is not generally preferred on Strawberry lands.

The materials used for mulching the farmland are paddy straw and black polythene film. Both these materials ensure good weed control, early cropping, reduce rotting and increase the yield of the crop.

To control the plant density, maintain the plant beds, and remove the older plants renovation of the Strawberry plantings should be done. These Strawberry plants grow very fast and get overcrowded thereby giving space to diseases and lesser yield. Renovation can be done in the following ways:

• After a week of the last pick, the leaves of the plants 1 inch above the crown area are removed through a mower.
• Plants in the rows are thinned either by hoeing or by harrowing.
• Rows are narrowed to 6 or 8-inch width.
• The crops are fertilized after renovation.
• Selected herbicides should be applied if necessary.
• Light irrigation is given to stimulate new growth.

De-blossoming or removing the flowers is practiced to prevent fruiting and increase the production of runners.

Generally, runners from a plant are allowed to root along the rows until the formation of adequate crowns, but after that, all the excess runners should be removed from the rows.

Diseases normally occur in plants where the rainfall is above normal. Some common diseases found in the Strawberry plants are categorized into Foliage diseases like powdery mildew, leaf scorch, and spot; root diseases like verticillium wilt, black root rot, red stele, etc.; fruit rots like gray mold, anthracnose, rhizopus, leather rot, etc. All these can be either controlled using proper chemical treatment methods or can be prevented using cultural methods like proper plant spacing, avoiding fertilizers during spring, mulching the soil beds, removing plant debris from the farm and destroying it immediately, cooling the fruit immediately after harvest, using cultivar with high disease resistance, providing proper air between the plants, removing weeds, etc.

Common pests of Strawberry plants are white grubs, cutworms, and root weevils. These can be controlled by using proper chemical sprays. Fumigating the soil is also helpful in some cases. Organic or biological control measures like neem oil spray can also be used to prevent pests.

Strawberry fruits are generally hand-harvested during the early morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are low. Fruits are picked only after attaining complete maturity i.e. taste of the fruit is sweet and the color is red. Harvesting is done either twice a week or every second day. Picking the fruit should be done using the forefinger and thumb. The fruit is detached by twisting about 2 cm from the stem. While picking care should be taken not to damage the fruits and so they are placed in containers without stacking. Fruits that are overripe should be stored separately. The collected fruits should be protected from the sun, warm wind, and dirt. Small and large fruits also should be separately handled. Fruits ripen during February-April in plain areas and during May-June in hilly areas.

Punnets of transparent plastic trays are used as general packaging material for Strawberries. The yield of the Strawberries varies according to season, locality, and cultivar. The maximum yield from a one-hectare Strawberry farm is expected to be around 25 tons.

Temperature is an important factor that determines the shelf life of a Strawberry. The temperature variations from harvest to sale have a great impact on marketing the produce. A warm atmosphere causes the fruit to get destroyed easily, so the best temperature to store these fruits is 0 to 2˚C. Generally, the fruits are pre-cooled within one hour of harvesting and then stored in refrigerators. The storing area should be cool and well-ventilated. Under proper storing conditions, the fruit of Strawberry can be preserved for 4 days. The shelf-life of unripe, red to pink colored fruits is around 7 to 10 days at 2˚C.

The fruits are wrapped with suitable wrapping material to create an artificial atmosphere, where oxygen is reduced and carbon dioxide is enhanced so as to maintain its quality. Wrapping the fruits helps reduce contamination and bruising.

Cost and Profit Analysis of Strawberry Farming Project/ Strawberry Farming Proejct Report

Economics of Strawberry production:

The investment details for farming Strawberries in one hectare of land are discussed here. It is estimated that the farming is done on a plain zone because the cost and labor required for other zones like ghat areas may differ from this estimate. There is also a possibility of family labor being involved in the farm operations, but here we assume that the labor is hired (both men and women). We also assume that the average wage of both the categories of laborers (men and women) is the same, but practically during project implementation, it is observed that depending on the state and location the charges or wages of men and women are different.

Labor wage per day: Rs 300 (varies in between Rs 250-400 per day).

Cost of Strawberry planting material: Rs 5 per piece.

Strawberry farming is a labor-intensive system and the details of labour required for the entire farming cycle are given here for reference.

The average produce of Strawberry from 1 hectare of land is: 10,000 kg

The average sale price of Strawberry per kg: Rs 150 (varies in between Rs 100-450 depending on the variety and quality of produce)

Total income from the farm is roughly estimated at around: Rs 15, 00,000.

The average profit from the farm is assumed to be: Rs 7, 77,600.

This profit is obtained in one or two years of planting. In addition to this income, there is a possibility of income being generated by the runners obtained from the farm (around 35,000 runners), which can be sold in the market. The investment details do not specify the land rental charges, transport costs, electricity, water, fencing, depreciation values, etc. It is important to note that even though the details of these things have not been mentioned here, but they should be considered during the practical implementation of the project.

Depending on the type of farm, the Horticulture Board has different schemes outlined for different states. It is advisable to refer to the Horticulture board website for exact details. Every component of the project is supported with different amounts of subsidies. The average subsidy is expected to be around 75-80% of all important crops. If you are serious about growing Strawberries commercially, it is advised to go for Strawberry farming training .

In case if you are interested in this: How To Grow Organic Lettuce .

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10 COMMENTS

Interested in strawberry farming

PL suggest any training institute,which provide training on cultivation of strawberry

Good to hear about you Mr Reddy keep helping farmers.

Please Suggest any training institute, which provide training on cultivation of strawberry.

interested in doing the strawberry cultivation in varanasi (up).please help me with all the details

I am interested in Strawberry Farming!

Thanks for the information eagerly hoping to start strawberry farming

Can contact me for strawberry plant’s, will help you with all the necessary guidelines to start strawberry farming

Helo Poojaji, I want to start strawberry farming, can you guide me and also provide plants??

Are you able to source any information regarding hydroponic growing of strawberries?

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Owners of Ballantyne's 'pick your own' strawberry farm sell up after decades in agritourism

Every winter morning for the past 30 years, Margaret and Alan Ballantyne have risen in the early hours, pulled on their boots and ventured into the cool air to tend their strawberry fields.

Their farm at Cameron's Pocket in North Queensland, purchased in 1984, has been their pride and joy throughout those years, along with the three children they raised on it.

Now they're walking away from a lifelong love of farming, but hope their agritourism legacy will continue.

A slow start

The couple's "pick your own" farm has become a well-worn stop for tourists travelling through the top end of the Sunshine State, but success didn't come overnight.

"[Early on] we tried a lot of crops, we had citrus, paw paws, oranges, mandarins," Mr Ballantyne said.

But they were at a dead-end on what to grow, until they attended a local market and noticed a strawberry seller that had gathered a huge crowd.

"We thought, 'Wow, now there's an opportunity, we should start growing a few strawberries'," Mr Ballantyne said.

In 1995, the couple officially switched to strawberries and began by supplying supermarkets and local businesses, but quickly found themselves frustrated by the lack of returns.

That's when they made the life-changing decision to completely pivot their business model.

"We thought, 'We're not getting the money that we deserve for the effort we're putting in', so we thought we'd try [selling on] the highway," Mr Ballantyne said.

The duo established a little roadside stall on the side of the Bruce Highway in the nearby tiny town of Calen, about an hour north of Mackay.

It encouraged travellers to make a stop at the town.

The little stall has even garnered an international reputation, according to their son, who had a chance encounter with a fan of the farm in the United States.

"Our son Jack was over in Las Vegas as part of a group of school kids, and they were in a queue lining up for some food when this American lady picked up their accent and figured out they were Australian," Mr Ballantyne said.

"She told them she'd just came back from a trip over there and they got talking."

Somehow the topic of strawberries came up, and the woman told the group about "the best strawberry she'd ever eaten, at this little highway road stall".

Mr Ballantyne said his son soon realised the location of the stall she was referring to and excitedly told her, "Oh, that'd be my mum and dad".

The couple's "pick your own" attraction opened 15 years ago and also draws visitors from across the country.

But despite the farm's widespread acclaim, Ms Ballantyne said the most rewarding part was seeing the return of familiar faces.

"Watching all the people that came out here when they were pregnant and they're still coming now their kids are teenagers," she said.

"We've grown up with them, we're like grandparents to those kids."

Deb McLucas founded the Greater Whitsunday Food Network, an alliance of local growers that ran from 2016 to 2021, with the aim of establishing the region as a culinary destination.

She said the Ballantynes were "early adopters" of agritourism and highlighted its potential in the Greater Whitsunday region.

"It's certainly demonstrated to farmers within the region that there was strong interest for people to get onto farms and have that authentic experience," she said.

"We certainly feel very glad that they were involved with our efforts to raise the profile of food, agribusiness and agritourism in the region."

The legacy lives on

The new owners of the farm, Tim Molloy and Rose Brady, hope to follow in the footsteps of its original owners.

"We plan to continue running it just as Al and Marg did," Mr Molloy said.

The couple, who traded their mining business in Mackay for a life on the land, said they had countless memories of visiting the farm with their own five children.

Mr Molloy said the kids "love the change" and have been "out there helping plant".

The Ballantynes have stayed on this year to mentor the operation's new owners.

But they now have have a home with a seaside view.

Mr Ballantyne said he and his wife were looking forward to "settling down", but would always be around to offer advice or a helping hand.

"We just want to see them go ahead in leaps and bounds and they have the potential to do that — they've just got to entice the people that come out here to keep coming."

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