Irrigation is essential for high yields, good quality and frost control. Access to a reliable source of water of adequate quantity and quality is needed. It is not a startup enterprise. This enterprise direct markets to its customers through U-pick and farmers' markets. The planting of day neutral varieties provides some cash flow for the first year of planting.
Location is critical for a U-pick operation.
Ideal sites are located within 50 km of an urban centre or along a major transportation route. Rural locations must rely on farmers' market sales to supplement lower U-pick revenues. Acres Cash flow must be looked at separately from revenue and expenses to assess the viability of the enterprise. Year to year variations in prices and yields will affect cash flow. Individuals investing in a strawberry enterprise will require sufficient start-up capital to meet cash outflows until sales are made.