Since its publication in 1994, the Small Farm Handbook has been an essential resource for California’s small farmers and the agricultural professionals advising them – selling over 4300 copies. Now this invaluable reference has been updated and expanded for today’s small-scale producers.

What’s new in the 2nd Edition?

An important new chapter on postharvest handling and safety of perishable crops
Expanded marketing and labor chapters

The handbook covers three essential areas:
Background skills and knowledge, the business side, and the farming side

Within these broad areas you’ll find specific chapters on:
Requirements for Successful Farming
Growing Crops
Raising Animals
Farm and Financial Management
Marketing and Product Sales
Labor Management

Also included are profiles of six small farm operators representing a sample of California’s diverse agriculture.

Throughout you’ll get a look at emerging trends and issues for California agriculture and innovative methods for better production and management, all of which can lead to better farm performance.

Drawing upon the knowledge of 32 experts from the University of California, No other publication covers the topics, issues, and facets of California’s small-scale agriculture with this depth or level of expertise.

From the basics to risk management, specialty crops to marketing and product sales, this guide covers the gamut.