Protected Cropping

On Farms

Protected Cropping

Core tasks

Selecting and planting seeds and seedlings.
Maintaining crop production by cultivating, de-budding and pruning, and maintaining optimal growing conditions.
Organising and conducting farming operations, such as collecting, storing, grading, and packaging produce.
Directing and overseeing general farming activities such as fertilising, pest and weed control.
Maintaining farm buildings, fences, equipment, and water supply systems.
Organising the sale, purchase, and dispatch of produce.
Planning crop preparation and production to meet contract requirements.
Monitoring market activity and demand.
Managing business capital including budgeting, taxation, debt, and loan management.
May select, train, and supervise staff and contractors.
Establish and monitor hydroponic crops.
Plan a growing-on and propagation program.
Develop a horticultural production plan.
Identify risk and apply risk management processes.
Monitor the implementation of quality and food safety programs.

The Career Pathways

Protected cropping growers are responsible for planning and coordinating the production and marketing of horticultural crop grown within protected cropping environments.

These types of growers need to take into consideration the environmental and market factors when planning which crops to grow.

Protected cropping is becoming increasingly popular to grow crops like cucumbers and tomatoes. A protected environment, such as a greenhouse, creates a controlled environment which allows crops to be grown all year round.