At Orchard & Vine, we want to share not only what’s going on in fruit-growing, but also what’s going on with fruit growers. Thank you to the grower-readers who responded to this year’s survey. We know how busy you are and appreciate you taking time to share your experiences so others can learn and benefit. This more personal look at the year times perfectly with our annual fruit report, in that the human side to issues are often overlooked in a busy production-based industry yet we are able to capture a snapshot of them.
This year, cannabis was included in the survey and (spoiler-alert) not many of you are thrilled about it. You’re also concerned about the shortage of available labour and want the government to make changes. We also asked for your insights into the unfortunately repeating issue of BC’s wildfires and how they impact your business.
A lot of you are preparing to retire. We hope you’ll share this issue with an up-and-coming grower and let them know the things you gain from reading.
FS Opinion
Fruit Survey Q1,2
FS Stage
FS Retire
What advice would you give a young farmer starting out today?
Get a good education.
Do your homework before getting into a particular type of farming.
Make thorough plans, because it won't be easy.
Be very well informed prior to starting.
Be prepared to work long hours, lots of government red tape, join trade organizations, have deep pockets.
It's a tough business. Very limited government assistance.
Start small and try not to get into debt. Sell direct to the public, eg. farmers markets.
Lease land.
Replant to high density and new varieties. Start off from leasing because it is not affordable to purchase.
Focus on quality. It is the best factor for building value.
Don’t over expend on expensive machinery. Long term leases on orchard land are great if you can get them.
Farm in a community that supports farmers and not just the farm land! BC would not fall in this category.
Be innovative and look for new varieties and ways to market your product.
Young Agrarians are a great group.
Don't take advice from old farmers.
