However, standards of hygiene tend to be lower and quality is variable. North Dakota producers may be able to economically produce some varieties of high-quality herbs. Herb prices tend to be relatively variable predominantly because of fluctuating supplies. Also, because of a limited number of alternative uses for herbs, marketing excess production can be difficult. Producers without contracts for herbs may have to store production for an extended time.
Market access can be difficult for a beginning herb farmer.
Companies that currently import their necessary herbs may be reluctant to change suppliers because of concerns about supply, consistent quality and ability to reestablish a relationship with a previous supplier should new supplier fail. Producers interested in commercial herb production should find a market first and are advised to start small. Enterprises works with herb producers in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota and Montana to produce and market their herb production. An important key to success in the herb business is understanding the costs of producing and marketing the herbal crop. One tool, which can be quite helpful in assisting potential producers in the decision-making process, is budgeting.