17 April 2025
There is a growing trend of consumers in Wales choosing locally produced fruit, vegetables and flowers. Not only are they supporting local growers, these buyers are also reflecting today’s shift towards increased environmental awareness and the desire to minimise food miles to minimise carbon footprint and mitigate climate change.
This is particularly the case for imported produce if the same items can be successfully grown near home - good news for farmers interested in setting up or expanding an existing horticulture enterprise. With most Welsh-based supermarkets, restaurants and farmers' markets willing to prioritise Welsh-grown produce, increasing numbers of buyers are choosing to ‘buy local’ whenever they can.
Farming, forestry and horticulture too
Farming Connect is renowned for the wealth of support, guidance and training it provides for hundreds of farm and forestry businesses each year. Did you know that farmers who are planning to become or already established as commercial ‘horti’ growers, are also eligible to tap into its comprehensive range of services? With the growing season finally in sight, this could be the perfect time to access a raft of sector-specific horticultural advice all either fully funded or subsidised by up to 80%. From training courses, e-learning options and mentoring on topics ranging from nutrient management planning and mitigating weather conditions to business management, marketing and sustainable packaging, simply select the services you need.
Sarah Gould is the horticulture manager for the skills and training element of Farming Connect’s horticulture programme. Sarah advises you to get in touch whatever stage of your ‘growing for growth’ journey you’re currently at, explaining that joining a grower network is often a good place to start.
“Being part of one of our grower networks is a great way to meet like-minded horticulturists, sector specialists and see at first-hand what could work well on your farm, before you dig your first furrow!
Do your research and set realistic expectations
“From seasonal options such as summer fruits, vegetables, salad crops, herbs and flowers to the Christmas trees, pumpkins and root vegetables which come later - if you’ve got a spare patch of acreage, Farming Connect can help you make the most of it whether that is through ‘pick your own’ enterprises, farm shops, community hubs or directly to retailers and consumers,” says Sarah.
“If you do your groundwork first and investigate what will grow best for you – soils, climate, topography and resources are just a few of the indicators to consider – now is the time to check out your options, with Farming Connect providing specialist support at every stage, to help you invest wisely and utilise your resources effectively.”
Sarah also referred to the opportunities resulting from Welsh Government’s commitment to encouraging more public sector organisations in Wales such as hospitals, schools, and care homes to procure more Welsh produce, which is increasing demand.
Growing horticulture crops contributes to biodiversity and soil health, but there are other significant benefits for farmers. Compared to traditional livestock or arable farming, many crops, such as fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers, have higher per-acre returns with speciality crops and organic produce fetching premium prices. Glasshouse, polytunnel and vertical farming options allow year-round production with reduced environmental impact. And with many horticultural crops having shorter growing seasons than livestock, a quicker revenue turnover is an added benefit.
Current Opportunities
If access to land is one of your barriers to setting up your growing venture, Farming Connect's Start to Farm initiative can match up with a landowner, offering business and legal advice to develop tailored legal agreements to form a joint venture...... we have two opportunities available currently:
Time to find out more?
For further information visit the horticulture section on the Farming Connect website. Alternatively, contact your local Farming Connect development officer.