Gardening is a multi-billion dollar business dominated by large corporations such as Wal-Mart and Home Depot. That doesn't mean a home gardener can't establish and run a thriving home-gardening business. The trick is finding the right market niche and product. Growing plants is similar to growing a business. They both need planning and care to thrive. You wouldn't start a new flower bed before thoroughly preparing and amending the soil. So don't start a new business without preparation.
Instructions
1. Decide on the products. You might think that offering fresh produce, flowers and herbs are your only alternatives. That is one option but you could also offer heirloom seeds, seedlings or unusual varieties of plants and flowers. Gardening tools and accessories that are unique and difficult to find in the big-box stores are another option. Supplement your plant products with gardening books and videos.
2. Develop a marketing plan. People need to know about your business and products. Establishing a website is a good idea even if your business will be strictly local. Lots of people use search engines to find businesses. If you don't have an Internet presence you won't be found. Contact the plant nurseries in the area. If you don't compete with them, they may offer your products or let you leave your business card and brochures. Farmer's markets are another way to market your gardening products.
3. Obtain licensing. Check with your homeowners association if your neighborhood belongs to one. Some prohibit any business run from the home. Others have no such restrictions. Contact the state and city to see if they require a general business license. The odds are they do. If you're selling your plants, flowers and veggies retail you will need a sales tax license as well as a business license.
4. Establish your business entity. Of course you can stay a sole proprietor, but there are advantages to incorporating the business. Check with your state office where you register trade names and trademarks. It may be the state Secretary of State or the Corporation Commission. Search to make sure no one else is using your name. It doesn't make sense to have your website established and business cards printed only to find out you're using another business's name.
5. Find help. Don't think you have to go it alone when starting up your gardening business. There are places to go for help. Many university agriculture extensions have workshops, seminars and websites providing a wealth of information on gardening businesses. The Small Business Development Centers provide free or nearly free consulting. Try the office of SCORE, Service Corp. of Retired Executives, near you for advice on all aspects of business.
Tips & Warnings
Keep records of what you spend as well as sales revenue. You'll need them for tax purposes.
Always obtain the required licensing. There can be stiff penalties if you don't.
Source: http://www.ehow.com/how_6234247_start-home-gardening-business.html
