12/07/2025
Successful farming doesn’t start with planting—it starts with planning. Whether you're new to farming or already experienced, asking the right questions before the season begins sets the stage for profitability and sustainability. Here are 8 key considerations every farmer should reflect on:
1️⃣ What to Produce?
Choose crops or livestock that are suitable to your climate, soil type, market demand, and your personal expertise. Don’t grow what you like—grow what the market wants and what your farm can support.
2️⃣ Food, Income, or Both?
Decide early: Are you producing for household food security, income generation, or a blend of both? A dual-purpose model allows for food on the table and money in your pocket.
3️⃣ How to Produce It?
Will you use conventional, organic, or climate-smart practices? Determine your production methods based on available resources, training, and market requirements (some buyers require organic certification).
4️⃣ How Much to Produce?
Production should match your market size, resource capacity, and labor force. Don’t overproduce what you cannot store or sell. Underproduction, on the other hand, limits your profitability.
5️⃣ What Resources Will Be Used—and When?
Plan the use of land, labor, water, equipment, and capital. Understand the seasonality of your operations so that everything from land prep to harvesting is done on time.
6️⃣ What Inputs Are Needed—and Where to Get Them?
List all inputs—seeds, fertilizers, vaccines, feed, chemicals, irrigation tools—and research reliable suppliers. Compare prices, verify quality, and make early bookings to avoid last-minute shortages.
7️⃣ How Much to Sell—and When?
Selling everything at once may flood the market and reduce your price. Consider staggered selling, value addition, or on-farm processing to maximize returns. Keep a portion for your household or replanting.
8️⃣ Where, To Whom, and At What
Price?
Identify your target market:
Grandfarmer
