Seed supplier for market gardens and small farms

Market gardeners, CSA farms, greenhouse growers, small-scale farmers and landscapers.

Margin on bulk seed sold by weight or in larger packs, with repeat seasonal orders, pre-order discounts and delivery fees for local drop-offs.

• Knowledge of crops and local growing conditions
• Building trade relationships
• Stock control and record keeping
• Basic bookkeeping

• Seeds Act and Seeds Regulations: check with CFIA about registration, grading, labelling, germination and variety registration, especially for field and cover crops
• Import permits and plant health rules if bringing in seed from abroad
• Seed storage conditions, since poor storage lowers germination and can cause customer complaints
• Large upfront stock purchases before pre-orders arrive, which can tie up cash
• Commercial general liability insurance, and check whether product or crop failure claims are covered
• Strong seasonality, so plan finances for the quiet months

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $10,000 to $40,000 CAD, depending on how much bulk stock you buy, your storage space and insurance. Large stock purchases before pre-orders arrive can tie up cash.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $15,000 CAD, depending on your customer base, product range and pricing. Income is strongly seasonal, so plan your finances for the quiet months.

Check with CFIA about registration, grading, labelling, germination and variety registration under the Seeds Act, especially for field and cover crops. Also check import permits and plant health rules if bringing in seed from abroad.