The Survival Podcast Growing for Market with “The Greenhouse Guy”– Friday Flashbacks – Epi-77
May 23, 2025
Guest Steve Kasarda, known as the Greenhouse Guy, shares his wealth of experience from owning nurseries to growing for market and manufacturing greenhouses. He discusses affordable ways to start greenhouse gardening and offers tips on managing soil health and growing conditions. An emphasis is placed on cultivating unique plants for profit, including the intriguing story of the Mortgage Lifter tomato. Steve also touches on the dynamics of farmer's markets and the importance of community engagement in building a successful local food production business.
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Start Small & Research Market
- Start small by trying what you know first, like tomato plants at a local market.
- Walk the market, talk to vendors and managers to understand what sells before investing heavily.
Greenhouses Are Helpful But Optional
- Use greenhouses or tunnels to control temperature and pest issues but you don't need expensive structures to start.
- Even simple plastic-covered PVC frames can work well for starting plants.
Market Growing Has Low Startup Costs
- You can start market growing with minimal costs: buy seeds, potting soil, and used small pots cheaply.
- Start plants cheaply, raise them to saleable size, and expand your offerings gradually each year.