Occupation field crop or vegetable grower

Field crop or vegetable growers plan, direct, coordinate and perform farming operations to grow field crops, such as grain and vegetables.

Tasks

• Develop annual business plans and determine types and quantities of crops to be grown, according to factors such as market conditions, governmental support and soil conditions.
• Prepare soil (e.g. plough, harrow) by hand or machine, and spread fertilisers and manure.
• Select and sow seeds, and plant seedlings.
• Maintain crops e.g. by cultivating soil, by transplanting, pruning or thinning plants, and by setting up and operating irrigation equipment.
• Control weeds, pests and diseases e.g. by applying weedkillers and pesticides commensurate with hygiene and health standards.
• Harvest crops and destroy diseased or superfluous crops.
• Inspect, clean, grade, sort, package, store and load crops for marketing.
• Evaluate product marketing alternatives, establish market strategies, promote and market products, and organise the sale and transportation of products.
• Recruit, coordinate and direct farm workers.
• Keep inventory, and purchase supplies.
• Maintain farm buildings, fences, equipment and water supply systems.
• Perform administration duties, including keeping financial records, and managing budgets and accounts.

Back to the list of occupations.