Small orchard selling direct to local customers

Local shoppers at farmers' markets and farm gates, village shops, delis, cafes, pubs and box schemes.

Selling fresh fruit by the kilo or bag, often at a better price than wholesale. Storing good fruit lets you sell for more of the year. Some growers add extras such as gift boxes.

• Basic tree care and pruning
• Patience, as trees take years to crop
• Practical outdoor work
• Selling and talking to customers

• Young trees can take several years to give a real crop, so plan cash for the wait
• Frost, pests and poor weather can cut a harvest, so consider spreading risk across varieties
• Check the land agreement or tenancy terms and whether planning permission is needed for any sheds or stores
• Check rules on pesticide use and training, and food hygiene if you process or pack fruit
• Public liability insurance, especially if customers visit the site
• Check whether you need to register with your local council or the relevant farming body for your nation

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £5,000 to £25,000, depending on land, trees and equipment. Young trees can take several years to give a real crop, so plan your cash for the wait.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £300 to £1,500, depending on the size of the orchard, the varieties, the weather and how much you sell direct. Frost, pests and poor weather can cut a harvest.

Check your land agreement or tenancy and whether planning permission is needed for sheds or stores. Also check rules on pesticide use and training, food hygiene if you process or pack fruit, insurance, and whether you need to register locally.