Landscape tree and shrub grower
Grow native trees and shrubs on a small plot and sell them to landscapers, garden centres and homeowners.
- C$4k-20k
- Part-time
- Own premises
Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.
What it is
Raising young trees and shrubs in the field or in containers until they are big enough for landscaping, windbreaks, restoration planting and home gardens.
Your first three steps
- Choose a few hardy, native species that suit your region's climate and that local landscapers ask for
- Take a nursery or horticulture course, or spend time at an established grower, and plan irrigation and winter protection
- Talk to local landscapers and garden centres about what sizes and species they buy, and agree on a first small order
Who pays
Landscapers, garden centres, municipalities, conservation groups, farmers planting windbreaks and homeowners.
How it makes money
Price per plant, based on species and size. Selling smaller stock earlier brings in cash sooner, and bulk orders from landscapers give steadier sales.
Skills that help
- Plant knowledge or willingness to learn
- Basic record keeping and planning
- Selling to trade customers
Watch out for
- Check with the CFIA and your province about plant health rules and any pest-related limits on selling or moving plants
- Check municipal zoning and whether you need a licence for on-site sales
- Winter damage, drought and pests can destroy stock, so plan for losses
- Commercial general liability insurance, and WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire seasonal help
- Reliable water access and enough storage or overwintering space
🔒 Full research report for Canada
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start a tree and shrub nursery in Canada?
Startup costs are typically estimated at around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on your plot, whether you grow in the field or containers, and the water and storage you need. Plan for some stock losses from winter damage, drought and pests.
How much can a landscape tree nursery earn?
Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how much stock you grow and whether you sell to landscapers, garden centres, municipalities or homeowners. Expect to put in at least 12 hours a week.
What rules should I check before selling trees and shrubs in Canada?
Check with the CFIA and your province about plant health rules and any pest-related limits on selling or moving plants. Also check municipal zoning and licences for on-site sales, and insurance such as commercial general liability and WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire seasonal help.
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