What Is Custom Growing? A Guide for Landowners & Ag Investors in Southeast MN

What Is Custom Growing? A Guide for Landowners & Ag Investors in Southeast MN

Farming isn’t just for full-time farmers anymore. More landowners and agricultural investors in Southeast Minnesota are seeking ways to earn income from farmland—without owning equipment or managing operations.

That’s where custom growing comes in.

If you've heard the term but aren't quite sure what it means (or how it works), this guide will walk you through the fundamentals. We'll also explain how Bunne Farms delivers high-quality custom growing services across Fillmore, Dodge, and Mower Counties—helping landowners grow profits without the stress of daily farming.

What Is Custom Growing?

Custom growing is when a landowner or investor hires a professional farm operator (like Bunne Farms) to plant, maintain, and harvest crops on their land, using their own equipment and labor.

You keep full ownership of:

• The land
• The crop
• The decision-making process

We handle:

• Equipment
• Labor
• Daily operations
• Timing and logistics
• Reporting and updates

Unlike leasing, where you give up operational control to a renter, custom growing gives you control with none of the day-to-day work.

Who Benefits from Custom Growing?

Custom growing is ideal for:

• Retired farmers who still want a return from their land
• Heirs or landowners who inherited farmland but don’t farm
• Ag investors who purchase farmland for income and appreciation
• Busy professionals who want passive income from rural assets
• Absentee owners who live out of state

Whether you’re growing corn, soybeans, or another row crop, custom growing lets you keep control, improve performance, and reduce your workload.

Custom Growing vs. Leasing: What’s the Difference?

Let’s compare the two approaches:

Bottom line: If you want more control and potentially more profit—custom growing is your best choice.

What’s Included in Bunne Farms’ Custom Growing Program?

At Bunne Farms, we’ve spent decades refining our custom growing services. Here’s what’s included when you partner with us:

1. Field Prep and Planning

• Soil testing
• Crop rotation planning
• Field shaping and drainage review
• Nutrient and fertility program recommendations

2. Planting

• Precision seed placement
• Timely planting to match optimal yield windows
• Equipment suited to your field conditions

3. In-Season Management

• Spraying and weed control
• Fertilizer and nutrient application
• Regular field monitoring and problem-solving
• Weather-adjusted planning

4. Harvest

• On-time harvesting to maximize yield and quality
• Grain transport or delivery coordination
• Clean-up and post-harvest assessment

5. Reporting

• Regular updates via phone or email
• Yield summaries and input cost tracking
• Recommendations for next season

Why Choose Bunne Farms for Custom Growing?

Here’s why landowners trust us with their custom growing needs:

• Family-Owned Since 1925: Nearly a century of trusted farming in Southeast Minnesota.
• Modern Equipment: We bring a full fleet of reliable, efficient machines—no rentals or delays.
• Local Knowledge: We understand the soil, weather, and crop trends in Fillmore, Mower, and Dodge counties.
• Transparent Communication: Regular updates, no guesswork, and complete clarity.
• Custom Agreements: We work with you to tailor a plan that meets your goals.

How Custom Growing Increases Profit Potential

With leasing, landowners receive a fixed rent amount—usually between $200 and $350 per acre. That’s predictable, but it doesn’t reflect the real profit potential of the land.

With custom growing:

• You get 100% of the crop revenue
• You control input costs
• You manage marketing and timing

On good ground and in strong crop years, custom growing can generate higher net profits than traditional leases—especially with high corn and soybean prices.

Is Custom Growing Riskier?

Not necessarily—it’s about smart planning and partnerships.

At Bunne Farms, we work closely with landowners to:

• Reduce risks with proven crop plans
• Use precision tools to improve efficiency
• Monitor fields for early issues (pests, disease, etc.)
• Adapt quickly to weather or market conditions

We help you avoid costly mistakes while staying fully informed.

FAQs About Custom Growing in Southeast MN

How much does custom growing cost?

We charge a per-acre or per-operation rate, based on services needed. Costs are agreed upon upfront, with no hidden fees.

Can I choose my own seed and fertilizer?

Yes! Many landowners work with their own agronomist or use our recommendations. You’re in charge—we just execute.

Do I need to live locally?

No. We work with absentee owners and out-of-state investors regularly. We’ll keep you updated with email, photos, and reports.

Can I combine custom growing with land investment?

Absolutely. Many of our clients buy farmland as an investment, then hire Bunne Farms for custom growing. We help manage the entire process—from purchase to production.

Ready to Make Your Land Work for You?

If you’ve been searching for a better way to manage your farmland—or want to turn your land into income without lifting a finger—custom growing is the answer.



Bunne Farms is your trusted custom grower in Southeast Minnesota. With honest service, modern tools, and nearly 100 years of experience, we’ll make your land productive, profitable, and well cared for.