8:16 a.m., Dec. 18, 2008----If you've considered the possibility of getting into farming, now's the perfect time to see if it's right for you. Introduction to Sustainable Small-Scale Vegetable Production is a new two-part workshop offered by University of Delaware Cooperative Extension that will look at ways that individuals can farm productively on just a few acres.

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“This series is geared to backyard gardening enthusiasts who want to supplement their income or produce most of their own food, as well as to new small-scale growers who want to maximize their production,” says Anna Stoops, an agriculture agent for New Castle County Extension.

When it comes to small-scale farming, the choice of crop is critical, notes Stoops. The two-part series focuses on vegetables because, as a labor-intensive crop, it's an area where the small grower can effectively compete against large-scale operations.

The seminars will be offered from 7-9 p.m., Thursdays, Jan. 15 and Jan. 29.

On Jan. 15, the focus is organics, from how to transition over to organics to how to become organically certified. The evening will include a panel of local experts who will talk about their own successes and challenges in going organic, with tips on getting started and the best crops to grow.

“There has been a tremendous interest in organic vegetable production,” says Stoops. “It's a growth area that many small growers are choosing to capitalize on.”

The Jan. 29 session features an overview of best management practices for small-scale vegetable operations. Topics to be covered include crop rotation, cover crops, tillage practices, composting and soil management.

Introduction to Sustainable Small-Scale Vegetable Production will be held at the New Castle County Cooperative Extension office on Wyoming Road in Newark. The two-part series is $15; individual sessions are $10 each.

To register, call (302) 831-COOP. For more information, contact Stoops at [stoops@udel.edu].