Because the crops that are presently available to the small farmer are no longer profitable, there is a need to develop alternative crops. Herb and spice production shows great promise in providing an alternative. The herb and spice market demand far exceeds domestic production. Therefore, the U.S. is importing herbs and spices from other countries to meet the demands that exist. If the small farmer is to be successful in providing these crops for the present markets, he must have information in the areas of: crop selection, crop production and market preparation. This information must be relevant to the climate, soil types and markets that the small farmer will have available.
