How do I Start a Garden Nursery Business?
If you've gardened for many years and have a thorough knowledge of all phases of plant production, you may be well suited to start a garden nursery business. It will take planning, research and start-up capital to launch your business. According to a nursery case study conducted by Dr. Ken Tilt of Auburn University, a small, one-acre retail nursery can cost more than $26,000 in the first year, so it is key to obtain capital. In addition, take horticulture and business courses before you make the leap. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Parcel of land
- Office and retail space
- Greenhouse
- Vehicle
- Irrigation system
- Hoses
- Potting soil
- Fertilizer
- Plants
- Assorted plant containers
- Seedlings
- Thermostat
- Shade cloths
- Trowels
- Shovels
- Gardening gloves
- Garden carts
- Business license
Instructions
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1
Visit nurseries in the area to determine your competition and learn what customers in the area are seeking to purchase at nurseries.
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2
Obtain a business license or tax identification number at your county and state government offices. Register your business's name and apply for a resale license.
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3
Sign up for business and entrepreneurial classes or workshops at your local community college or business association. Some organizations will match entrepreneurs with veteran business owner-mentors who will guide novices starting a new business.
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4
Develop a business and marketing plan to keep tabs on your business's growth, and to draw customers to the nursery. Decide on a location for your nursery, and continue to examine the market in your area and potential customer needs.
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5
Locate a one-acre or larger parcel of land to purchase for you nursery as well as an office and retail space for tasks like sales and bookkeeping.
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Purchase a large vehicle such as a truck or van to transport plants from wholesalers to your nursery. If you plan to grow plants from seed or seedlings, purchase a greenhouse and have it professionally installed with an irrigation system. Install a lath house or shade cloth-covered area where you can house shade-loving plants.
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Stock up on necessary supplies such as potting soil, fertilizer, soil moisture tester, wheelbarrows, garden carts, shovels, trowels, gardening gloves and shade cloths.
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8
Design and plant garden beds and borders along fences and around pathways throughout your nursery as an attractive way to display various plants for sale.
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9
Take a class in bookkeeping; employ a professional accountant to guide you and help you file taxes.
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Tips & Warnings
Establish an employee identification number if you plan to hire employees.
Starting a business is a time-consuming undertaking; educate yourself for a few months by taking classes and seeking professional advice in all areas pertinent to your business before making an investment.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit large greenhouse image by Adrian Hillman from Fotolia.com
