Small-Plot Christmas Tree Grower

Local households, plus small businesses like pubs, cafes and village halls wanting trees for display.

Price per tree, usually by height, with extras such as netting, stands and local delivery. Trees take several years to mature, so income starts late and is concentrated in December.

• Basic land and plant care
• Patience and long-term planning
• Customer service during the busy season

• Trees usually take years to reach saleable size, so check you can fund the gap before the first sales
• Land use or tenancy terms: check an agricultural tenancy or landowner agreement allows tree growing and public visits
• Public liability insurance if customers visit, and check your planning needs for parking or a sales area with your council
• Pests, drought and young tree losses, so allow for replanting
• Check tax and registration as a sole trader, and ask HMRC or an adviser about any farming-related rules

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £1,500 to £7,500, depending on your land arrangement and how many trees you plant. Trees usually take years to reach saleable size, so check you can fund the gap.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £300 to £1,500, depending on how many trees you sell and to whom. Pests, drought and young tree losses can reduce stock, so allow for replanting.

Things to check: whether an agricultural tenancy or landowner agreement allows tree growing and public visits. Arrange public liability insurance if customers visit, and ask your council about planning for parking or a sales area.