Home greenhouse orchid grower

Plant enthusiasts, gift buyers, collectors and orchid society members, reached through online marketplaces, your own website and plant fairs.

You sell plants individually, with higher prices for rarer varieties and larger plants in flower. Extras like pots, feed and compost can add a little more.

• Patience with slow-growing plants
• Knowing orchid care and common pests
• Photographing and describing plants for online listings

• Heating and lighting costs through winter can be significant, so work these out before you scale up
• Check plant health rules with Defra or the Animal and Plant Health Agency, including whether you need a plant passport or registration to sell
• Many wild orchid species are protected under CITES, so check what paperwork applies before buying or selling species plants
• Check whether your greenhouse or any customer visits need permission from your landlord, mortgage lender or council
• Plants can be damaged in the post, so test your packaging and think about a replacement policy
• Public liability insurance if customers visit you or you sell at events

Startup costs are typically around £800 to £4,000, depending on your greenhouse or conservatory setup, how many plants you buy and your heating and lighting. Work out winter running costs before you scale up.

Monthly revenue is typically around £300 to £1,500, depending on how many plants you grow, where you sell them and the time you put in. The estimate assumes at least around 8 hours a week.

Check plant health rules with Defra or the Animal and Plant Health Agency, including any plant passport or registration. Check CITES paperwork for protected species. Also check whether your greenhouse or customer visits need permission from your landlord, mortgage lender or council.