Intro to Horticulture : 12 Points to Ponder When Opening a Horticulture-Based Business

12 Points to Ponder When Opening a Horticulture-Based Business

by Melanie Mason, North Country Daylilies
632 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
518-587-2156 website: www.daylilies.netheaven.com

1) Choose a plant that you are passionate about.

2) Know your product. Learn as much about your plant as you possibly can BEFORE you do anything. Join local, regional and national organizations that relate to your plant.

3) Know your market. Are there people who have a need for what you want to sell? Can you develop a market if one does not already exist?

4) Research the costs, both obvious and hidden, involved in your business. This might include a well and irrigation system, greenhouse, soil improvement, chemicals for fertilization and weeding, equipment, storage, and a computer

5) Be prepared to work solo, or with family for several years. Hired labor is very expensive.

6) Advertising- Observe other similar businesses and see what advertising strategy they use that seems to work. Develop a mailing list. Be prepared to give talks to local garden clubs.

7) Location- Do you already own property? Can you legally sell from your property? Do you have natural traffic flow nearby, or are you a "destination location? Do you have parking?

8) Develop a pricing strategy. Value can be added to a product in any number of ways to increase profits.

9) Develop a web-site and keep it up-to-date. Join internet garden forums.

10)Make sure you keep your customer service top-notch. Respond to e-mails within a day or two, and return all phone calls promptly. Be accessible.

11) Find a "niche", a corner of the market as yet untapped and develop it.

12) Have hours that are comfortable for your customer and for YOU