Small-plot vegetable grower

Farmers market shoppers, households signed up for a weekly produce box (CSA), and neighbors buying from a farm stand.

Sales per bunch or pound at market, plus prepaid seasonal CSA shares that bring in cash before the main harvest. Higher-value crops like salad mix and herbs earn more per square foot.

• Growing vegetables and planning crops by season
• Manual work outdoors
• Selling and talking to customers
• Basic record keeping

• Check farmers market vendor rules, fees and any permit or application deadlines
• Check whether your state or county requires a license or registration to sell produce, and any rules for selling at a farm stand
• Check food safety expectations for fresh produce in your state, including any exemptions for small growers
• Get general liability insurance, as many markets ask for proof of coverage
• Check zoning if you grow in a residential area, plus any HOA or lease rules
• Weather, pests and water access can cut yields, so plan for a bad season

Estimates suggest startup costs typically run around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on whether you own or lease the plot, your tools, seeds and water access, and the market fees you pay.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $3,500, depending on your crops, season and sales channels such as markets and produce boxes. Plan for at least about 15 hours a week. Weather and pests can cut yields.

Check farmers market vendor rules, fees and deadlines, and whether your state or county requires a license or registration to sell produce. Also check food safety expectations for small growers, general liability insurance, and zoning, HOA or lease rules.