Running ohio apple orchards actually takes more than just planting fruit trees. Although, the main purpose as to running these types of businesses is to harvest the fruits and sell them off for consumption. Orchards have long been known to be good sources of finance for businessmen and farmers. However, it will still be essential for them to know to facilitate a smooth operation.
Apples have a lot of varieties and it is important for farmers and businessmen to grow familiar of what these are. All in all, there are 26 types of these fruits including and each vary on growth period, color, taste, and texture. Among the most common varieties are Gala, Fuji, Macintosh, Granny Smith, Golden Delicious and Red Delicious apples. Other varieties typically include Honey Crisp, Jonagold, Braeburn, Macoun, Cortland and Paulareds.
Farmers and businessmen should also exercise familiarity with the laws related to agriculture. When it comes to knowing the standards for agrichemicals such as pesticides, consulting with EPA would be the best approach. Because consumers prefer produces that are less chemically treated, many have resorted to employing organic operations.
Perhaps, the most important aspect in running an apple orchard is selling off the produces. Common venues considered for this include grocery stores, farmers markets and craft fairs. Depending on the size of the business, it may be essential for a business owner to learn how to wax or wash fruits, what the circumstances to storing these are and how they can be inspected for quality.
It is very important for any business to come up with approaches on how they can perk up customer interest. For this reason, it will be important for even orchards to plan out how they can entice buyers to purchase their merchandise. They may consider holding apple festivals or pick-your-own tours during harvest times. They may also cater to education programs for extra revenue while helping educate the community about the fruits.
Maintenance of the daily business operation must be seen through. An important thing that a business owner should consider is the timing when to hire some additional employees. Knowing this will entail studying records of the employees, keeping an eye out for the profit and loss ratio relative to the sales being made.
Take measures on how your orchard should be cared for. These will be essential to keep your establishment enticing in the eyes of your customers and potential ones. Exercise regular maintenance by hiring gardeners to pull unsightly and unhealthy weeds out. You may also request that decorative plants or additional trees be planted for visual purposes.
Pruning the apple trees once every year, preferably March, can help in removing branches that might have been damaged during the winter season. The process will also allow the nutrients of the trees to be diverted into healthier sections. When opting for the approach, it will be necessary to ensure that the trees are still in their dormant stage while undergoing the process though.
Regular watering will also form part of the essentials in running ohio apple orchards. Trees are expected to be watered once per week throughout the summer season. During winter or dormant seasons though, watering must be slowed down.
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