I just love hobby-turned-to-business success stories. I have heard a plenty, I must say but I find garden centers to be the most fulfilling of them all—and my gardening friends will attest to that!

Gardening fulfills a certain spot in seniors’ heart. It maybe the “nurturing” side of it or perhaps actually having control of things as well as seeing something grown by your own hands–whatever it may be, nothing can beat having the chance to show it off and earn from it as well! Be it something as small as your backyard can give or as big as those fancy ones, here is a simple guide to help you set up your own garden center:

•    Pinpoint your market. Nowadays, business owners have plenty of market to target depending on their interest and well—availability. Those who wish to operate on a fairly tight budget can go online and still be successful. Alternatively, you can seek local garden centers to supply plants to.
•    Explore your area and be open to possibilities. Don’t limit yourself to the norm, be daring enough to see opportunity even if it is not that obvious.
•    Do a market research. Your market research will help you estimate the average amount that is most likely be spent when they visit your garden center. Furthermore, it will help you arrive at a decent price for your plants.
•    You may want to visit local garden centers just to have an idea what works and what not as well as how they put a tag on their plants and other products.
•    Determine seasonal changes. One thing with garden centers is that prices tend to go up and down depending on seasons. If you are familiar with plants, you most probably know what kinds of plants need to go before a certain kind of season hits.
•    Always stick to what makes your customers happy. Be customer-oriented always and make sure you are always there for them to help.
•    Determine what kind of payment method to use. Most garden centers accept credit cards. If this is a standard operating procedure in your area, you must be able to offer your customer that kind of option too.
•    Know where to advertise. There are online directories which cater locally or you can opt to have your garden center listed on local newspapers. If budget is to be considered, then find ways to advertise for free.
•    A good logo can go far. This will represent your garden center so this should be good and somewhat straightforward.
•    Network. Network. Network. Word of mouth is still as powerful as ever. Let your friends now that you are setting up your own garden center and see how quickly you’ll get inquiries!