Skip to main content

Operations | Activity: Crop Selection

There are a number of factors that is involved in the crop selection process. Some that will involve market demand and pricing but also the farmers ability to produce such a crop. The farmer's ability to produce such crop is dependent on the climate and setting of the land in which he/she plans to raise these crops and, even, the farmer's tolerance and resources required to raise such crops. Some crops require more attention than others.


So to list out the factors mentioned, they are as follows:

  1. Comparative pricing of crop
  2. Market demand of crop
  3. Required climate of crop
  4. Crop yield
  5. Farmer's budget

Comparative Pricing

Starting a farm will require money to acquire the seeds for planting. The seeds for some crops will cost more than others. This cost adds up when you have calculated the required number of seeds needed to fill the land that you have prepared for farming. Depending on the farmer's budget, the type of crop chosen can be determined by the cost to get the supply of seeds to start the farm.

Below are significant points to think about when choosing crop (adapted from Mahtab Rasheed; found here):

  • Price and quantity needed per acre
  • Average yield and sprout to sown ratio.
  • Suitability to particular area and climate.
  • Water requirement.
  • Resistance to diseases.
  • Location of distribution offices for the seed.

Market Demand

For any business, it is important to foresee the profitability of the venture your entering. When preparing land and purchasing seeds to start the farm, the farmer must consider the potential selling prospect of the crop. The demand for some crops are more obvious. Nonetheless, every farmer need not target popular public markets. Instead, the farmer can target niche markets with the intent of forming alliance with manufacturers through contract farming.

Required Climate

Although, scientists have done experiments to make some crops able to grow and survive in strange climates, the farmer must either do the necessary research or collaborate with scientists to determine whether a particular crop is fit for the climate in which it will be raised. Some crops can only grow within certain humidity and temperatures: coconuts grow in the tropics not in cold climates.

Crop Yield

In order to meet market demand, the farmer must anticipate the supply that the crop of his choice can offer in each yield. Some crops take a long time to bear fruit. The pineapple takes up to 2 years, while the melon takes 3 months (once it is in season). In addition, some crops are seasonal while others aren't. So, having this in mind will help the farmer plan his seeding and harvesting strategy.

The Budget

At the end of all the deliberation, the farmer must look at the money he has, the climactic conditions that the land is in, the preparation required for planting such a crop and other factors such as does he live on the land or is he managing the farm remotely. With little resources and little time, the crop to be chosen is more likely something that thrives with little attention like some desert plant that has some good nutritional and/or medicinal value. With lots of water, money and time, the farmer can venture into rearing grapes, berries and, even, vegetables.

These are some of the critical points of consideration when choosing a crop to farm.

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Operations | Supply Chain: Supermarket Chains

Here is an overview of four major supermarket chains operating across Jamaica, each offering a wide range of grocery products, fresh produce, and additional services: Progressive Grocers of Jamaica (PGJ) Overview : Founded in 1999, PGJ is the largest and fastest-growing locally owned supermarket chain in Jamaica. It operates 22 supermarkets under brands such as Shoppers Fair, Super Shoppers Fair, Progressive Foods, JR’s Bargain World Food Stores, and D & Y Supermarket Wholesale. Additionally, PGJ is affiliated with seven other supermarkets, bringing the total to 29 locations across the island. ( pgjamaica.com , Progressive Grocers of Jamaica ) Community Involvement : PGJ supports local farmers by purchasing local produce, meats, and processed foods. It also engages in community development through initiatives like the Progressive Grocers of Jamaica Foundation, which supports schools and health programs. Contact : Website : pgj.world Phone : (876) 984-2259-61 Ema...
Post a Comment
Read more

Operations | Structure: Soil Management

One of the most important foundation component of agriculture is the soil. The soil has three main purpose: retain water for the plants, provide nutrients to the plant and give physical support to the plant. Soil contains many minerals in it that is vital for plant growth. Soils differ in different regions because it contains one type of mineral more than other soil in other regions. This kind of mineral can come from volcanic activity as well as weathering activity. Soil has layers (or horizons). At the very top, humus can be found which is rich in organic matter (usually decomposing plant and animal matter). As we go deeper below the surface, the soil particles become bigger until we hit rocks (the parent material of soils). Soil is made up of sand, silt and clay. All sand, silt and clay are not the same. Sand is bigger in (particle) size than silt and silt is bigger in (particle) size than clay. The perfect soil for agriculture is said to be 40% sand, 40% silt and 20% clay, which is...
Post a Comment
Read more

Business | Market: Boosting Jamaica's Exports

Jamaica continues to make strides in carving out a niche in the U.S. market with a range of produce that holds both cultural and commercial appeal. Carita Jamaica's review of current exports and challenges highlights significant opportunities for improvement and expansion across key crops. Unique Jamaican Produce in the US Market The following Jamaican-grown items currently have unique recognition and demand in the U.S.: Yellow Yam and Negro Yam Scotch Bonnet Peppers Ackee Avocado (Pear) Breadfruit Dasheen Turmeric Mangoes These products are closely tied to Caribbean culinary traditions, giving them a natural advantage in diasporic and ethnic markets. Breadfruit – The Need for Quality and Off-Season Supply Breadfruit stands out with high demand but poses several challenges: Quality Control Issues : A distinction must be made between green and roasted breadfruit during selection and processing. Cross-Island Sourcing : Finding consistently high-q...
Post a Comment
Read more