Nursery
Nursery
Nursery
Reflection Paper
1. Determine the plant types available for sale at the new nursery. Greenhouses
specializing in blooming varieties of plants, such as flowers and ornamental pieces,
require different amounts of light and humidity from those that grow fruit-bearing
plants or ground cover species.
2. Register with the local Department of Agriculture to receive nursery certification.
Each state determines its own rules for certification and sets the fees for this
recognition. Provide a listing of plants or plant types and indicate familiarity with safety
regulations for plant health and growth. Most states also require a Sales and Use Tax
Certificate, available from the Secretary of State, for any retail sales of plants or other
goods.
3.
Determine the correct manner of display for the business. Vegetables and herbs may
require stands to keep them from sitting in water or potentially hazardous runoffs.
Ground cover plants thrive when planted directly in the earth and allowed to develop
native root systems. Shops specializing in trees or shrubs require display pots and large
areas of open space for growth.
4.
Locate a wholesale seed or seedling vendor. Reputable vendors offer wholesale
discounts to other businesses and require proof of official business status such as a
federal Employer Identification Number or Articles of Incorporation. Many also require
proof of official certification.
5.
Purchase seeds, fertilizers, displays and any other incidentals such as inventory or cash-
handling systems. These items transform the location into a place of business and allow
a well-informed small-business owner to begin sales at the new plant nursery.