Small-plot veg grower with veg boxes

Local households who want fresh, seasonal veg, often paying in advance for a season.

Subscription-style box sales at a fixed price per box, plus occasional extras such as salad bags, herbs or cut flowers.

• Growing vegetables and planning crops through the year
• Working outdoors in all weathers
• Simple record keeping and customer communication

• Check the tenancy or licence terms and whether the land can be used commercially
• Check whether you need to register as a food business with your local council
• Public liability insurance is worth checking, especially if customers visit the site
• Weather and pests can cause crop losses, so avoid promising fixed contents for every box
• Check rules on water use, polytunnels and any planning requirements with your local council

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £1,500 to £8,000, depending on the plot, tools, seeds and how you handle collection or delivery. Check your costs against the size of plot you plan to use.

Check the tenancy or licence terms and whether the land can be used commercially. Also check whether you need to register as a food business with your council, plus rules on water use, polytunnels, planning and public liability insurance.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around £300 to £2,000, depending on plot size, customer numbers and the season. Weather and pests can cause losses. The idea assumes at least about 15 hours a week.