Episode 207. What to Consider When Choosing U-Pick Crops
In this episode of Voices from the Field, National Center for Appropriate Technology Sustainable Agriculture Specialist Martin Guerena speaks with Robert Ramming to learn more about Robert’s U-pick operation near Woodland, California. Robert’s Pacific Star Gardens raises apricots, berries, melons, tomatoes, and eggs. It sells from a roadside stand and U-pick fields.
Robert explains his crop choices for U-pick and why blackberries are great, and vegetables are not-so-good. He and Martin dive into pricing, insurance, choosing a location, and the importance of building customer loyalty. Plus, Robert discusses the effect the COVID-19 pandemic had on folks’ attitude toward their food.
Related ATTRA Resources:
Tips for Selling with: Agrotourism and ‘Pick Your Own’
Tips for Selling at: Roadside Stands
Other Resources:
How to Make $100,000 Farming 25 Acres
Contact Martin Guerena directly via email at marting@ncat.org and Margo Hale at margoh@ncat.org.
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