A small farm can bring in revenue through various channels, from livestock to educational programs. However, growing and selling crops are generally at the top of the list. If you’re looking for the best cash crops to add to your farming operation, here are several profitable crops to consider.
The Small-scale Farming Industry in 2023
Small farmers have to deal with many challenges in 2023, from challenging weather conditions to consumers who are increasingly concerned about rising food prices. With the world population rising, there’s a sustained demand for quality cash crops. And farmers can get these items to consumers through various channels, from farmer’s markets to wholesale stores and restaurants.
- READ MORE: Small Farm Crops
Most Profitable Cash Crops for Small Farms
Whether you’re looking for a lucrative cash crop to add to an existing farm business or trying to build an agricultural business from scratch, here are some profitable plants to consider.
1. Goji Berries
Goji berry plants are easy to grow, and each one can get up to 13 feet tall, leaving lots of berries to pick. If you’re interested in planting goji shrubs, they can easily be sold to grocery stores, restaurants, and food brands for use in high-end snacks and dishes. You can also get goji berries plants and seeds easily from many different outlets both online and brick-and-mortar retailers.
2. Oyster Mushrooms
Gourmet mushrooms like oyster mushrooms are often used in expensive dishes. But they also grow quickly and are quite inexpensive to produce.
3. Microgreens
Microgreens like arugula and other leafy green vegetables don’t require much space to grow, and they’re fairly easy to keep alive in various climates. And because of their popularity, you can now get microgreens seeds online and in retail stores.
4. Almonds
Almonds are popular in everything from trail mix to milk alternatives. Once almond trees are established, they are quite hardy and can produce a high yield in the right climate. However, they can take a while to get going. So look at this as more of a long-term investment.
5. Coconuts
Coconuts are among the most profitable crops in the tropical plant family. Those in warm climates can start these plants without many resources and then grow them into large trees that yield many coconuts.
6. Ginseng
Growing ginseng from seed or roots can be profitable, as it is used in various therapeutic and supplement products. It can take years to mature this plant enough to sell the roots, but you can sell seedlings in the meantime.
7. Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are the smallest items in the tomato family, meaning they grow quickly and easily. Tomato plants easily pop up year after year and are used in various dishes.
8. Garlic
Garlic is a small plant that doesn’t require much space or resources. It’s also used in tons of dishes, and gourmet garlic can demand a high price tag.
9. Saffron
Saffron is one of the most expensive culinary herb products on the market. It takes some startup money to grow these plants. But eventually, the established plants can bring in high profits each year.
10. Basil
Basil is another herb that is prominent in many dishes. It’s small and easy to get started. You don’t even need a large outdoor garden to get started.
- READ MORE: 12 More Profitable Crops for Small Farms
More of the Most Profitable Crop Options
In addition to those listed above, here are some of the most lucrative crops you may not have already considered.
11. Bonsai Plants
Bonsai plants are generally grown indoors. And each one can command a decent price tag. They’re generally sold as small, potted plants. So you can offer them in retail settings or even online.
12. Lavender
Lavender plants are fairly hardy. And they can be sold in bunches to consumers or even wholesale to companies that use the oil for fragrance or related products.
13. Bamboo
A bamboo business can thrive thanks to the ability of these plants to grow quickly and command a decent price tag. This plant is mainly sold as a potted plant or landscaping feature.
14. Hemp
Hemp is used in a huge array of products, from supplements to fabric. And the plants are fairly hardy and inexpensive to grow.
15. Juniper
Juniper is popular in landscaping applications. And the oil can even be used in various products to add scent and flavor.
16. Hostas
Hostas are among the hardiest landscaping plants, and they’re in high demand across the country. You can even re-plant them from cuttings of existing ones.
17. Pine Trees
Pine trees are able to grow in various environments, even during cold winters. Then you can sell them to eager buyers during the Christmas season.
18. Pumpkins
Pumpkins are an especially popular crop during fall. So you can easily add them to an existing operation to bring more visitors during this growth cycle. Many growers offer them as a U-pick option for consumers. But you could also harvest your own and sell them to grocery stores or food producers.
19. Sorghum
Sorghum is similar to wheat, but it is included in many products and can be grown with less land. This ingredient is often included in beverages and syrups. So you may even create wholesale relationships with these suppliers to bring in ongoing revenue for your business.
20. Sunflower
Flowers in general can be profitable crops for growers who work with nurseries or florists. Sunflowers and particular can be quite hardy and command a significant price tag. When growing flowers, you may need significant space, but they are generally fairly easy to care for.
| No. | Crop | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Goji Berries | Easy to grow; High demand in grocery stores and food brands |
| 2 | Oyster Mushrooms | Fast growth; Used in expensive dishes; Low production cost |
| 3 | Microgreens | Requires minimal space and maintenance; Popular and in-demand |
| 4 | Almonds | High yield potential in the right climate; Long-term investment |
| 5 | Coconuts | High profitability in tropical climates; Requires minimal resources to start |
| 6 | Ginseng | Used in various therapeutic and supplement products; Seedlings can be sold while waiting for root maturity |
| 7 | Cherry Tomatoes | Quick and easy growth; Used in a variety of dishes |
| 8 | Garlic | Requires little space and resources; Gourmet garlic can command high prices |
| 9 | Saffron | One of the most expensive culinary herbs; High profits after initial investment |
| 10 | Basil | Versatile herb widely used in dishes; Can be grown in small spaces |
| 11 | Bonsai Plants | Grown indoors; High price tag for small, potted plants |
| 12 | Lavender | Hardy plants; Can be sold in bunches or wholesale for fragrance-related products |
| 13 | Bamboo | Quick growth and high demand; Sold as potted plants or landscaping features |
| 14 | Hemp | Versatile use in various products; Fairly hardy and inexpensive to grow |
| 15 | Juniper | Popular in landscaping; Oil can be used for scent and flavor |
| 16 | Hostas | Hardy landscaping plants in high demand; Easily propagated from cuttings |
| 17 | Pine Trees | Grows well in various environments; Ideal for selling during Christmas season |
| 18 | Pumpkins | Popular during fall; Can attract visitors to the farm; Sold as U-pick or to grocery stores and producers |
| 19 | Sorghum | Used in beverages and syrups; Requires less land compared to wheat |
| 20 | Sunflower | Hardy flowers; High price tag; Profitable for growers working with nurseries or florists |
What Are the Most Profitable Plants to Grow and Sell?
Embrace a lucrative and sustainable opportunity in agriculture by diving into the thriving world of gourmet mushroom cultivation. Whether you’re an experienced grower seeking a new venture or a budding entrepreneur looking for a profitable crop, gourmet mushrooms like oyster mushrooms and shiitake mushrooms offer a low-cost investment with the potential for substantial returns. These delectable fungi are in high demand due to their unique flavors and health benefits, making them a sought-after delicacy in the culinary world. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unveil the secrets to successful gourmet mushroom farming, exploring the market potential, essential cultivation techniques, and expert tips to help you cultivate and sell these prized mushrooms with confidence.
- Gourmet mushrooms, such as oyster mushrooms and shiitake mushrooms, are a popular choice for small-scale growers due to their relatively low startup costs and high demand in the market.
- These mushrooms can be grown indoors, making them ideal for individuals with limited space or those looking to start a home-based business.
- Oyster mushrooms, in particular, are known for their fast growth and high yields, making them a profitable choice for aspiring growers.
- Shiitake mushrooms, on the other hand, command a premium price in the market, making them a lucrative option for those willing to invest a bit more in their cultivation.
- Mushroom cultivation is environmentally friendly, as it involves recycling waste materials like sawdust or straw, reducing the carbon footprint of the business.
- With increasing interest in healthy and sustainable food options, gourmet mushrooms have gained popularity, creating a ready market for growers.
- The demand for locally grown and fresh produce has surged in recent years, making gourmet mushrooms an attractive option for small businesses looking to supply to local restaurants, farmers’ markets, and specialty stores.
- Gourmet mushrooms are also highly versatile and can be used in various culinary dishes, adding to their appeal in the food industry.
- As with any agricultural venture, it’s essential to research and educate yourself about mushroom cultivation techniques, best practices, and potential challenges to ensure a successful and profitable venture.
- Establishing a reliable distribution network and building relationships with potential buyers will be key to ensuring a steady stream of sales for your gourmet mushroom business.
Can a Small Farm Become a Successful Business?
Yes, a small farm can become a successful business. However, you do usually need at least one valuable crop like mushrooms, ginseng, flowers, or herbs. Many diverse enterprises run farms with various other crops as well to bring in additional revenue throughout the year.
Image: Envato Elements
This article, "Most Profitable Crops for Small Farms in 2023" was first published on Small Business Trends
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