Apart from the peaceful serenity, one advantage most families who live in the countryside have over those who live in the city – is that they get to cultivate their food for themselves or for commercial purposes. Either way, they get fresh food on their tables each day and still make a living from it. Now, I need not remind you of the benefits of eating fresh… you probably should get packing, just saying…
But on a serious note, in cities, you can’t get these benefits from a grocery store, unless you are purchasing from a local farmer’s market, of course!
Farmers will agree that having traveling irrigators solution is the beginning of a successful farming journey, allowing farmers the flexibility to also irrigate their small irregular and narrow farms. Investing in this modern irrigation system keeps your fields productive during times of low or no rainfall and water source.
Row Crop for Beginners
Row crops are not necessarily cropping that are grown in rows. They are short life cycles (typically, less than or equal to a year – no more than that) and fiber plants that can be mechanically sown, irrigated, fertilized, and harvested every year. Examples of row crops are vegies, grains, commercial and forage crops.
- Vegetables – Tomatoes, carrots, cabbage, cucumber, etc.
- Grains – Corn, millet, beans, wheat, etc.
- Commercial crops – Sunflower, cotton, etc.
- Forage cops – Potatoes, root crops, etc.
Getting Started with Row Crops Farming
As a newbie starting a small row crop farm, in no specific other, you should think about the following;
The row crop to cultivate
Since you are new to farming, choose crops with low financial risk, even though the profit margin won’t be so high – it’s a good start for you. For crops with high profit comes with high risk – you need a good amount of experience for that.
Soil
Use your country’s soil map to identify your farm’s soil type. Better soil will give you better chances to cultivate more row crops. While you are at it, also investigate further on the row crop that best matches your identified soil type.
Climate
Your climate also plays a role in the successful growth of crops. Factors like rainfall, sun exposure, air movement, and frost should be put into consideration. Yes, you have a traveling irrigation solution to rainfall issues. In the same way, you should also consider the sun and others – this will help you narrow down your options to the best row crop that can adapt to a specific climate.
Profitability
The crop you choose should be profitable (in demand) – even if it mainly for your consumption. By so doing, you will gain experience for future purposes.
Crop protection
Your crops should be resistant to environmental threats and as a means of livelihood, you need to protect them from weeds, pests, and livestock. Put measures in place (herbicides, pesticides, fences, etc.) to tackle these issues.
If you are interested in starting your row crop farm today, learn more about Starting a farm.
