If you’ve ever considered packing it all in and doing your own thing you’re not alone. It’s estimated that there are over 2 million small businesses in Australia. Most of these are started by people tired of the 9-5 and want to be more in control of their own lives.
Of course, the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is fuelling concerns regarding job security. This is pushing more people to try their own ventures.
Starting your own backyard farm is a great way to become self-sufficient and to make a profit from selling your produce. The good news is that it’s not difficult, you just need to adopt the right approach.
However, before you start, it’s a good idea to take local agricultural tours. This will give you an idea regarding what works in your local area and the type of competition you face. In fact, it should help you choose your own backyard farming niche.
Choose Your Niche
The first step is to decide what you intend to farm in your backyard. This will partly depend on the space you have available and your personal incentive. For example, if space is relatively limited then beekeeping is a viable option. It takes minimal space, produces great honey that can be used and sold, and requires very little start-up investment. If you are interested, check out this guide on beginning beekeeping, and get some quality bees at the same time!
In contrast, if you have plenty of space you may want to go with livestock. You can separate your yard to have an area for pigs, sheep, chickens, and even cows.
You should be aware of how much space each animal needs and what care they’ll require. By spending a little time doing your homework first you’ll choose the right niche for your backyard. It must suit the space you have and your personal preferences.
Other possibilities include growing mushrooms, flower cultivation, or compost delivery.
Regulations
Before you do anything else you need to verify the regulations in your state. There are usually rules regarding what can be kept and commercially produced in your backyard. You may need to apply for licenses before you can start your backyard farm.
It’s a good idea to get all this resolved before you start, especially if you have close neighbors.
Planning
While approval is being sought you can start on your plan. There are two sides to this.
Firstly, you need to design the layout of your yard, allowing for where your animals or plants will go. Then, you’ll be able to work out what it will cost to build each enclosure or the equipment you’ll need to get started with crops. You can work out potential incomes but the key at this stage is having the money to get your backyard farm off the ground.
You’ll then be able to secure the necessary finance if needed.
Preparing
With your plan, fiancé, and appropriate licensing you’ll be able to start preparing the land and commence your backyard farming. It will be hard work but it will also be very rewarding.
