North American Fruit Explorers mailing list at ibiblio

[Claude Sweet <hortventures@cox.net>]

I suggest considering a wide selection of cultivars that would extend 
the availability of having tree ripe fresh fruit.  This includes tree 
and berry crops. 

If someone in your area produces vegetables,  it would make sense to 
combine forces to expand the items being offered and reduce the cost of 
constructing and maintaining the stand.

Customers need to know what you sell and when it is available.  Building 
a mailing list is an important way to contacting previous customers.

Having a web site can't hurt and is an economical way to attract new 
customers as well as provide information to current customers.

Marketing is the last thing many growers consider when it should be the 
first.  Congratulations on considering marketing as a major factor to 
your success.

Suggest you consider permits and plan for traffic control and well as 
signage.  Off road parking is vital if you want to have people stop on 
impulse.  A congested road and no parking within a reasonable distance 
will discourage potential customers.

Design your stand to be rustic, but be sure to provide rest rooms, walk 
in cooler space and offer items like jams, pies, etc. that provide 
impulse sales.  It might be well advised to have tables for customers to 
sit and consume cool beverages and food that you could sell.

Just a few ideas off the top of my head, but you may have already 
considered these concepts.

Good luck with your venture.  It is a 24-7 opperation for the entire 
harvest season. Hope you have a supply of seasonal workers - family or 
hired help.

Claude Sweet
San Diego, CA