Young farmers in Wales are being encouraged to explore new opportunities in horticulture through a scheme designed to inspire the next generation of growers.

The Bwyd o’r Tir – Growing for the Future programme is open to anyone aged 16 and over and offers the chance to learn about the commercial potential of fruit and vegetable production.

Participants will be taken on a series of structured study visits to a diverse range of horticultural businesses across Wales and the border counties. These visits will showcase a variety of farming models, including large-scale field vegetable operations, thriving soft fruit businesses, and smaller-scale specialist growers who are carving out a niche in the marketplace. Industry experts will share crucial business and financial advice to support young farmers in developing successful horticulture ventures

Among the farms taking part is Troed y Rhiw Organics in Llwyndafydd, Ceredigion. The family-run business is Soil Association-certified and prides itself on a holistic, sustainable approach to food production. The farm grows an array of vegetables, herbs, soft fruit and flowers, all sold locally to ensure maximum freshness. Its livestock – including Highland cattle, Welsh pigs and chickens – play a key role in maintaining soil health and providing meat for the surrounding community.

“I’m excited to explore potential horticulture crops that can be grown successfully in Wales and to see what business opportunities that might present in future for young farmers,” said Jacqui Banks, Agrisgôp Leader for Farming Connect.

Alongside the visits, the programme includes classroom-based sessions with horticultural experts, who will cover essential business topics such as financial planning, supply chains, and identifying new markets. These sessions are designed to help participants assess whether horticulture could form a viable strand of their own farming operations.

The scheme will also contribute to the development of a brand-new Young Farmers’ Club (YFC) horticulture competition, which is expected to launch in 2026. The first meeting to shape the contest is set to take place at this year’s Royal Welsh Show on Monday, July 21.

The initiative has also attracted the support of leading Welsh food business Castell Howell.

“It’s great to have Castell Howell supporting this group, they are doing such a lot of interesting work with Welsh veg producers, getting Welsh veg into schools for example,” said Ms Banks.

“It will be exciting to understand the opportunities that this presents in the future for young Welsh farmers.”

The sign-up window for the programme until June 27 2025, and places are expected to be in demand.

For more information about what’s involved and to download a sign-up form, visit the Farming Connect website.

Farming Connect is one of four schemes delivered under the Welsh Government Rural Communities – Rural Development Programme 2014–2025. This 11-year programme is funded by the Welsh Government and is aimed at improving the resilience of rural communities while supporting agriculture and forestry across Wales. It focuses on boosting competitiveness in these sectors, enhancing the rural environment, and fostering sustainable businesses and thriving rural communities.