Since its publication in 1994, the Small Farm Handbook has been an essential resource for California’s small farmers and the agricultural professionals advising them – selling over 4300 copies. Now this invaluable reference has been updated and expanded for today’s small-scale producers. The handbook covers three essential areas: Background skills and knowledge, the business side, and the farming side Within these broad areas you’ll find specific chapters on: Requirements for Successful Farming Growing Crops Raising Animals Farm and Financial Management Marketing and Product Sales Labor Management Also included are profiles of six small farm operators representing a sample of California’s diverse agriculture. Throughout you’ll get a look at emerging trends and issues for California agriculture and innovative methods for better production and management, all of which can lead to better farm performance. Drawing upon the knowledge of 32 experts from the University of California, No other publication covers the topics, issues, and facets of California’s small-scale agriculture with this depth or level of expertise. From the basics to risk management, specialty crops to marketing and product sales, this guide covers the gamut.

Authoritative text enables readers to identify pests quickly and to prevent, correct, or live with most common pest problems. 250 color photos, 100 drawings.

A guide to starting and operating a successful small farm.

This handbook adapts scientifically based integrated pest management techniques to the needs of the home gardener and small-scale farmer. Covers insects, mites, plant diseases, nematodes, and weeds of fruit and nut trees and vegetables using the IPM approach of making minimal use of broad-spectrum pesticides; the methods recommended here rely primarily on organically acceptable alternatives. 120 common pests are described in individual sections; crop-by-crop symptom identification tables guide you quickly to the information you need. More than 350 color photos and 118 drawings help you diagnose problems and find solutions. What’s new in the Third Edition? •Includes the most up-to-date information on managing vegetable, herb and fruit tree pests with organically acceptable tools. •Over 30 new insect, disease and weed pests. •Crop tables in the back expanded to include 6 new crops and herbs. •Over 120 new color photographs added for a total of more than 400 color illustrations throughout.

Discover the golden road to sustainable agriculture with "The Small Farm Handbook," a comprehensive guide that invites you into a world where self-sufficiency and eco-consciousness converge to create flourishing small farms. This essential read is for anyone looking to unlock the secrets of building and managing a successful small-scale farm in today's world. Embark on a journey through meticulously organized chapters that lay the foundation of understanding sustainable agriculture, addressing both the idyllic visions and gritty realities of small-scale farming. This handbook provides a penetrating look into the modern small farmer's life, weaving through the rich tapestry of knowledge necessary to cultivate a thriving agricultural enterprise. Gain strategic insight into selecting your farm's focus, aligning your personal aspirations with market needs to chart a course for success. Delve into the nuances of land acquisition and management, mastering the stewardship of soil, water, and biodiversity to create an estate that respects natural resources and yields abundant rewards. Setting up your farm business is demystified with a step-by-step approach to crafting business plans, grasping farm economics, funding, and navigating legal waters. Learn how to build sustainable farm infrastructure using eco-friendly design, energy efficiency, and sustainable building materials to establish an operation that stands the test of time. "The Small Farm Handbook" also serves as your all-encompassing guide to tools, equipment, expert techniques for soil fertility, crop management, and sustainably raising livestock. It doesn't stop there; you'll explore market gardening and the art of producing and selling value-added products, diving deep into marketing strategies that will make your farm a household name. From laying out sales channels and community engagement to addressing labor, volunteering, and environmental conservation, the book leaves no stone unturned. You're also offered a forward-thinking perspective, covering the role of technology in farming, tackling challenges, and planning for the future to ensure the longevity and continued innovation of your small farm. Above all, this handbook is a manifesto on the ethical and moral dimensions of farming, encouraging you to cultivate not just crops but also a legacy that positively impacts the community and environment. Ready to transform your agricultural dreams into reality? "The Small Farm Handbook" is your indispensable partner as you sow the seeds of a sustainable, profitable, and ethically-driven farming future.

Since it was first published in 2002, the California Master Gardener Handbook has been the definitive guide to best practices and advice for gardeners throughout the West. Now the much-anticipated 2nd Edition to the Handbook is here—completely redesigned, with updated tables, graphics, and color photos throughout. Whether you're a beginner double digging your first bed or a University of California Master Gardener, this handbook will be your go-to source for the practical, science-based information you need to sustainably maintain your landscape and garden and become an effective problem solver. Chapters cover soil, fertilizer, and water management, plant propagation, plant physiology; weeds and pests; home vegetable gardening; specific garden crops including grapes, berries temperate fruits and nuts, citrus, and avocados. Also included is information on lawns, woody landscape plants, and landscape design. New to the 2nd Edition is information on invasive plants and principles of designing and maintaining landscapes for fire protection. Inside are updates to the technical information found in each chapter, reorganization of information for better ease of use, and new content on important emerging topics. Useful conversions for many units of measure found in the Handbook or needed in caring for gardens and landscapes are located in Appendix A. A glossary of important technical terms used and an extensive index round out the book.

This classic of the back-to-the-land movement is packed with solid, timeless information. Written by a renowned horticulturist, it has taught generations how to make their land self-sufficient. 95 figures.