Add a Haunted Attraction to Your Farm

As we head into fall, farmers across the country are preparing to wrap up their harvest.

So, what's next? A farmer's work is almost never done, but as things slow down a bit, if you're looking for a fun idea that can produce a little extra income, consider a corn maze.

Halloween is right around the corner.

That means children (and adults) everywhere are looking for spooky entertainment and corn mazes have been a popular attraction for decades. The maze can be as large as you'd like (the largest recorded is currently in Dixon, California at 60 acres). You can create designs that tell stories, have a theme or are a portrait. From there, you can even add haunted hay rides, a petting zoo and picnic areas.

If you're interested in getting started take this year to start doing your homework.

Planting corn for a maze will differ from crop production and will normally start around May. You'll also need to get proper insurance and any permits as regulated by your city or state. Also, as with any business, you'll need to have the proper marketing tools to get customers in the door. If you get too busy, you might even need to hire some extra staff to help out.

Here are some additional tips:

• Don't apply too much nitrogen fertilizer.
• When cutting walkways, cut the internal growing point of the stalk so it doesn't regrow.
• Cutting the field yourself instead of hiring someone can save you thousands of dollars.
• Ask for help. Talk to someone who owns a corn maze or a local tourism guide for advice.
• Have fun! Even though it's a business, it can be fun.

United Country Real Estate has been a leader in farmland for nearly a century. If you'd like to buy some more farmland to have your own corn maze, or if you're ready to downsize or retire from your current operation, contact one of our farmland experts today. Visit www.UnitedCountry.com to learn more.

Sources:

https://www.cornmazesamerica.com/cornmazeservices.php

http://knowhow.napaonline.com/creating-a-corn-maze-fun-and-surprisingly-cutting-edge/