Market Farming

["Elizabeth Pike" <pike AT always-online.com>]

I sold for 3 years without a stand or advertising.  Friends and 75
members of a local food co-op willingly drove 15 miles+ outside the
city to buy from me.  No stand, no prep--just word of mouth, and very
casual, except for my insistence on when I would be available to
harvest since I did it while they waited, or helped.

Occasionally vehicles drive in from off the highway--tourists
exploring country lanes, seeking a respite--not knowing they are on
private property (ever been lured by a country road to see what came
around the next bend??), completely ignoring the no trespassing signs.
I can't bring myself to greet them with the shotgun (as I am
tempted!), but muster all my southern hospitality as these are
tourists from other states and countries whom I find refreshing,
interesting and a delight to entertain.  They enjoy my garden,
(chickens & goats when I had them), a cold drink of water, some yummy
strawberries or chilled cukes, and a run for their dogs.   And they
buy for the road.

What is your proximity to highway traffic & places to put signs? Sue's
suggestion of selling to stores is a good one.  I have 3 waiting for
me to expand so I can supply them.

Liz Pike
Morningstar Gardens
Pollocksville NC
ICQ 46954468