Your Guide to Hobby Farming

From raising livestock to protecting the land, farming takes lots of time and dedication. It doesn’t have to be a career, though. Check out this guide to hobby farming to help you get started.

What Is Hobby Farming?

It’s actually exactly as the name implies. A hobby farm is a farm that acts as a hobby, not a business. They’re not meant to make lots of money and are usually less than 50 acres in size. Hobby farms make up 43% of total farms in the United States, and farms less than 10 acres large are some of the only ones increasing in the country.

The COVID-19 pandemic has opened a window of opportunity for hobby farming growth. In 2020, vegetable seeds hit record sales, and universities began offering free gardening courses. It’s clear to see that now more than ever, people are interested in growing their own food.

Who is Hobby Farming?

Hobby farming is popular with retired career farmers as well as those just getting started in agriculture. For people with careers in other industries, hobby farming is an escape from their day-to-day work and a way to explore a passion for plants and animals.

Best Practices for Hobby Farming

Before you start farming, it’s important to know the size of your hobby farm. If you have a smaller farm, you’ll need to stick to smaller tools and livestock. Of course, you can always get creative to make the most of your land. Things like vertical farming can help you grow more crops and take up less space.