How to Start an Organic Gardening Farm

Check state regulations to make sure your land can be used as a farm, and have your soil analyzed for contaminants. Among the USDA requirements for organic accreditation is a full record of the commercial pesticides, fertilizers and other harmful substances used on the land for the previous three years.

Undertake a risk management assessment to evaluate your financial and logistics needs in terms of farm management experience and access to required labor, irrigation, tools and materials. Set out a short, medium and long term plan, including forecasts of crop rotation, land management, natural pest and weed control, and soil fertility.

Contact grant-awarding bodies and other government sources of funding for financial help in the early days of your farm. Get involved with policy programs at the state level and universities that conduct studies into organic land management, to contribute to the information-sharing throughout the organic farming community.

Research the crops most likely to grow well in your hardiness zone as well as sources of organic fruit and vegetable seeds, seedlings and plants. Plan natural pest control methods by researching the natural predators for pests and bugs for each crop.

Look for an established CSA (community supported agriculture) project you can join as a producer, or start your own. Link in with community networks to publicize your intention to farm organically. Research the market both locally and further afield to establish the likely level of take-up in your state. Talk to store managers, supermarket chains, organic delivery companies, community centers, schools -- anywhere that organic produce will or might be welcome. The Local Harvest website reports that there is a huge demand for organic farmers to meet the needs of local communities signed up to participate in CSAs.