Rodney and Lynn Willis, Willis Farms
2 Row Vacuum Planter
Grant Award: $8,000
Rodney and Lynn produce sorghum syrup, cornmeal, and grits from crops they grow on their farm. For planting, the equipment they previously used a modified 3-point hitch converted horse-drawn planter.
Rodney has purchased a new vacuum seeder in time to use it this season to plant corn and sorghum. This new equipment has improved the seed distribution during planting, which will result in better yields. This mechanization, coupled with the production facility he built with his last AgOptions grant, is enabling Rodney to increase efficiency and production the farm. Rodney estimates he will increase farm income by 25% with
reliable crop emergence and crop yield.
He is currently selling at the Shelby Farmers Market and the Kings Mountain satellite market. Rodney recently acquired a farmhouse adjacent to his property, which he lists on Air BnB. He welcomes his guests to tour his farm and buy his sorghum molasses, cornmeal, and grits.
Contact the Local Extension Agent