How to Start a Wholesale Flower Bulb Business
Flower bulb wholesalers purchase bulbs and tubers such as tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and begonias from local, regional or international growers to sell to botanical gardens, large public gardens, landscape designers, retail stores and home garden enthusiasts. If you are interested in becoming a wholesale supplier, you should have a passion for horticulture.
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Instructions
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Learn everything there is to know about horticulture by enrolling in a horticulture program at your local community college or university or taking a job working at a nursery or under a horticulturist. Look for a program that provides hands-on training and focuses on propagation, growing and creating hybrids, in addition to greenhouse management.
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Join horticulture organizations such as the International Bulb Society to remain current on the latest industry news and the American Horticulture Society to network with growers and suppliers.
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Specialize in high-quality bulbs best suited for your local environment. Set your wholesale bulb business apart by offering heirloom or rare bulbs.
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Procure a location for wholesale flower business. If growing, you'll need to find suitable land to grow your bulbs. Otherwise, house them in a warehouse. Construct a show room, if housing your plants indoors. Implement a temperature and humidity control system in your warehouse. Purchase packaging materials, refrigeration, pesticides, fertilizer and warehouse supplies and equipment for housing and moving your bulbs such as pallets and a fork lift.
Purchase a delivery truck and hire a delivery driver who holds a commercial driver's license, if you intend to deliver the bulbs. Otherwise contact UPS or FedEx to compare shipping rates.
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Set up a website and begin advertising your business. On your site include quality images of your flowers, an About Me page, the types and the unique history of your bulbs, growing tips and a price list.
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Tips & Warnings
Find local, regional or international growers that are committed to providing quality bulbs.
As your business expands, consider opening a gift shop.
Compete with larger wholesalers by getting involved in your local community. Attend farmer's markets. Donate flowers for local events.
Purchase business insurance to include commercial auto insurance, general liability and workers compensation.
