How to Start a Gardening & Landscaping Business
A landscaping business will typically include lawn mowing, gardening, tree planting, raking and sometimes garden architecture. It is a seasonal business in many areas, but an all-year-round one in warmer climates. Starting a gardening and landscaping business can be a fun and profitable way to make a living.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Vehicle
- Trailer
- Lawn mowers
- Gardening tools
- Leaf blower
- Trimmer
- Cell phone
Instructions
-
-
1
Learn everything there is to know about the gardening and landscaping business. Work for a landscaping company for a summer to gain insight on all different elements of the business. Contact owners of other landscaping companies and ask a lot of questions.
-
2
Create a business plan or hire a marketing agency to do one for you. This will include elements such as a mission statement, financial plan, operating plan, competitor analysis and marketing plan.
-
-
3
Find a source for the supplies and tools you will need for your business. You will need at least one truck, a trailer, lawn mowers and tools such as rakes, shovels, brooms, wheel barrows, blowers, trimmers, pruners and tarps. Consult local gardening and home improvement centers and ask other landscape owners to recommend suppliers they like.
-
4
Visit city hall for a business license and inquire about any other permits you will need to operate your business. Also contact your insurance provider and ask what type of coverage you will require and for how much.
-
5
Decide if your base will be located in your home or if you will have an outside office. Since it is a seasonal business in many areas, a home office would be sufficient as long as you have enough storage for your supplies.
-
6
Market your business. Mail out fliers to homes in your area with special offers if they sign up quickly. Create a website to show off your work, and display your services and pricing packages. Offer prepay discounts. Visit factories and other businesses that typically have flowers and offer your services. Have your name and contact information displayed on your vehicle.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Consider starting your marketing efforts in the winter so as not to miss out. Offer special deals for signing up early.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit shoveling image by Pix by Marti from Fotolia.com
