When deciding whether to attempt farming a large parcel of land or not, don't forget to factor in the cost of the fertilizer, seeds, fuel, and
routine equipment maintenance. Your labor is the only freebie you get.
Since It's not Sitx, I'd assume you plan to use a tractor or some other gas-powered implements to cultivate the soil. If you're going to use hoes,
rakes and spades, you'd better buy lots of Ben Gay. Gardening by hand is back-breaking labor that seems to never end. Plan to spend at least a
couple of hours per day weeding, hoeing, and picking the bugs of your plants.
There's also the deer, rabbits, and other critters (including people) that have to be kept from reaping the fruits of your labor. A few deer can
strip your garden bare in a matter of days if not stopped. Nothing is more frustrating than to find all your melons and corn eaten before you have a
chance to harvest them. People driving by have a tendency to stop and help themselves to your crops as well if you happen not to be around. The few
ears of corn or the bags of tomatoes they take isn't the real problem however, it's the damage they do to the other plants that really takes a toll.
I had a pumpkin patch last year that was ruined by theives. They not only stole several pumpkins, but smashed and trampled an equal number as well
just for the heck of it.
If you're lucky enough to make it to harvest time, then factor in the cost of a good-sized canner, dozens of mason jars, lids, freezer bags, marking
pens for labeling, spices, etc. The costs adds up quickly when you're starting out. Some of your vegetables like corn will require refrigeration as
well, so add in the cost of a deep freezer.
After all that work, hopefully you have a large enough place to store all those breakable jars. you may as well add in the expense of a few shelving
units for good measure.
People just don't appreciate all the hard work and effort that goes into gardening and farming for some reason. Our forebearers were virtual dynamos
when it came to hard work.
Now if you're ready we can talk about the cost, time, and effort that goes into raising basic livestock like hogs or cows.
[edit on 3/3/08 by LLoyd45]