My wife and I recently purchased 28 acres in Northeast Ohio. On the 28 acres, 20 of it would be considered "farmable/tillable". The previous farmer planted corn, soybeans and wheat. Unfortunately, he used non-organic methods, so I can't apply for organic immediately - but my wife and I are interested in taking the next step in our vegetable farming. Currently, I'm very comfortable with a large garden. Every year we've planted a 60'x100' garden with all of our favorite veggies; however, with our new purchase we've discussed going much larger - like 2-3 acres worth of veggies. A small amount would continue to be for our own consumption, but the idea on the rest would be to sell (we live near a VERY busy thoroughfare and thought of opening a market stand). We would also sell to local grocers, farmer markets, etc.
I'm somewhat hesitant to make such a leap, as I've never grown that much before. I've researched raised bed farming (which I've never done) as well as some other types, but am still weary on how to lay out my veggies in a way that's most ergonomic and economic. We've always "cheated" in a way with our weed control as I've purchased those burlap weed control sheets that you layout and cut holes in. They're expensive up front, but I've gotten a few years of use out of them each time so they are more reasonable. Would you do the same on a large scale? If not, how do you successfully control the weeds? Are there vegetables you'd focus on first - or cast a wide net and plant a plethora of plant types?
Obviously, I want to do it right, but I am not afraid to take big bites; however, I'd rather limit the bruise on my backside should it not go completely as planned or if I have a steep learning curve up front. Any advice the community could give me would be greatly appreciated.
Some additional information: I have access to both small and large machinery. The land we purchased had a 40x60 pole barn on it and the farmer sold me his 65 HP tractor, a disc, brush-hog and rototiller (PTO hookup for back of tractor). I can also borrow my father in-laws equipment which is very large (150-200 HP tractors with large disc, field finishers, planters, etc.). On the excess land that I would not put to veggies I plan to plant alfalfa and produce hay for the next couple of years until I can apply for my organic certificate.
