How to Make Money With a Pumpkin Patch

Turn your backyard into a seasonal cash crop by planting a pumpkin patch. This great business idea is wonderful for fall and halloween seasons, and you can do much more with it than just selling pumpkins. In this business you'll grow and sell pumpkins, gourds, corn and other accessory vegetables to your customers.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Plant a pumpkin patch in time to generate ready pumpkins by early fall--generally early September in most locations.

2. Market your pumpkin patch with local ads, flyers and publicity.

3. Turn your pumpkin patch into an entire experience--not just a place to buy a pumpkin. Offer hay rides, hot cider, pumpkin carving instruction, and pictures with the kids. Foot traffic is critical in this seasonal business.

4. Hold special events on several days throughout the season. A pumpkin decorating contest or jack-o-lantern carving contest could draw a crowd of adults and children alike. Or, have a local baker come onsite to share recipes everyone can make using pumpkin. Provide recipes, and of course, samples.

5. Publicize a kid's halloween costume party on your pumpkin patch site.

6. Plant gourds, corn and other fall-themed vegetation to offer more products than only pumpkins.

7. Create a gift shop featuring fall decor, home accessories, baked goods and craft projects appropriate to the season.