How often do you look at the beautiful tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers at the grocery store or farmers’ market and think, “If only I had the time I could grow these lovely vegetables myself. I could also save a bundle of money and have the satisfaction of eating organic produce from my own backyard!”

Well the answer to your quandary is here!

If you have the space to put in a vegetable garden, there is a business that will do all the labor for you and provide you with all the benefits: fresh, organically grown produce. Of course there is a fee, but in the long run you will still probably come out ahead of the game. As we are all painfully aware, trying to eat only organic vegetables can be an expensive proposition.

Right here in Portland, there are two women, Donna and Robyn, who have started a business called Your Backyard Farmer. These two urban farmers will meet with you in your backyard to set up an organic farming system and customize the crops to fit the size of your family, eating preferences and habits. The most exciting part is that the FARM is right out side of your back door. Their website can be found at:www.yourbackyardfarmer.com

In order to begin your farming adventure you must first get on Your Backyard Farmer’s waiting list. The farming slots for this past growing season sold out, so if you are interested sign up now for the 2008 growing season.

The most important requirement for your backyard farm’s success is to have a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight each day. Most urban backyards have room for a small farming patch. Your Backyard Farmer will plant on a plot as small as 10’x10’ for a family of two and ideally a 20’x20’ plot is required for a family of four. The list of vegetables they will plant is extensive (see the pdf on their website). I am sure you will find your favorite vegetables.

Just imagine, ALL the work is done for you! All the watering, weeding and any soil amendments are all included in their services. The farmers visit your plot each week and once the crops start producing a harvest basket full of your bounty is placed right at your back door.

Your Backyard Farmer also provides a consulting service, from March to November, for those who want to do their own labor but would like some guidance. Once a month the farmers will meet with you to advise and teach you how to grow your own vegetables. Now there is not one excuse left -- your dream of having a backyard farm is right at your fingertips.

Images courtesy of www.yourbackyardfarmer.com