Salvador Moreno, SMM Farms
Greenhouse Production of Vegetable Plants
Grant Award: $3,000
Salvador is adding a heating system and gravel and ventilation system to his existing greenhouse so that he can supply all his own plant starts. Before this project he could only grow plants in late spring, which is not enough time for the seedlings to mature for planting that same spring. Salvador expects to dramatically increase his profitability now that he can eliminate the purchase of transplants.
“Considering the economic conditions of my farm and many around me, I have been forced to look at ways to reduce costs in order to maintain my business,” Salvador said. “I have very little to no control of the price I am paid for my product, however, through practices as what I have proposed, I can impact my production costs, and in turn, my bottom line.”
Salvador primarily markets wholesale through a distribution company in Canton. He also has roadside stands in Clay County and Towns County, Georgia. He sells some at farmer’s markets and advertises through the Extension Center’s Local Food and Farm Products Directory. His crops include tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, peppers, onions, cabbage, eggplant, watermelon and cantaloupe.
Salvador has farmed all his life, mostly for others, until he started his own business in 2003. All of his income is from farming. He raises his two sons to appreciate agriculture, and they are involved with the farm.
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