Anyone here thought about starting a CSA?

[NickB79]

CSA = Community Supported Agriculture?

I ask because I have a 1.5 acre backyard, a large vegetable garden, a fledgling fruit orchard, and a raspberry patch so vigorous I've nicknamed it "The Blob" because it would devour everything in sight if it weren't cut back frequently. While not 100% organic, I do use saved seed and heirloom varieties. Everyone I've given vegetables to raves about how my heirloom varieties taste so much better than what they buy in the stores, be it tomatoes, peppers, squash, etc.

Today, while discussing gardening with another couple, they began complaining about the abysmal results they've had with their CSA this year. A LOT of money paid up front for far too little in return, both in quantity and quality. I've now been propositioned by 5 friends who want me to grow them vegetables next year, and are willing to pay me for it.

It wouldn't be nearly enough to quit my day job for, but it would let me start a college fund for my daughter. My concern is primarily making sure everything is done legally, if there's any licensing required, etc.

I know the laws vary from state to state, but can anyone give me some advice on where to start, any good books to read on the subject, if you or someone you know has gone down this path before?

Thanks!

[uppityperson]

1. Try posting in the Gardening group also. I thought of doing it but decided it was too stressful

to be responsible for other's food. I have friends who have done this and thought it worked out well. Anyone going into it on either grower or shares side needs to be aware that the weather and insects/diseases/etc can impact things and you never know what will happen. They said make sure of good communication between the grower and sharers, let them know what is going on in the garden, thinking she did a website or facebook or something.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=forum&id=1159

[JDPriestly]

2. I don't know where you live, but in Santa Monica, Ca, you can apparently take

what is called a "master gardener" course and learn how to help other people start their gardens. Someone did that for the family behind me.

I just garden in pots on our good-sized cement are in the back yard. I get some tomato plants. I will soon plant peas, lettuce, arugula, cilantro, etc. (in and eastern area of Los Angeles -- hot, arid zone)

So, you might be able to advise some people on starting their gardens for pay. That's what I would look into. Why not teach others to do what you seem to be good at. It might be a lot of fun. And less of a burden than trying to garden for someone else, taking all the responsibility for someone else's garden.