Landscape tree grower for local landscapers
Grow shade and ornamental trees on a small plot and sell them to landscapers and garden centers.
- $5k-30k
- Part-time
- Own premises
- Licence or permit needed
Estimates for a small start in the US, not guarantees.
Official data
185 US businesses with employees in this field, +0.5% in a year
NAICS 113210 “Forest nurseries and gathering of forest products”. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, County Business Patterns 2023.
What it is
You grow native or ornamental trees in containers or in the ground until they are big enough for yards, parks and commercial landscaping, then sell them to buyers nearby.
Your first three steps
- Talk to local landscapers and garden centers about which species and sizes they struggle to find
- Contact your state department of agriculture about nursery licensing and plant inspections
- Start with a small batch of young trees or liners and a reliable water source, and track growth and sales before expanding
Who pays
Landscapers, garden centers, homeowners, builders and sometimes local towns or HOAs.
How it makes money
Price per tree by size and species, with higher prices for larger or hard-to-find varieties. Sales can be spread through the spring and fall planting seasons.
Skills that help
- Plant care and tree knowledge
- Irrigation and basic equipment use
- Building relationships with local landscapers
- Record keeping and inventory tracking
Watch out for
- Check whether your state requires a nursery license or inspection before you sell
- Check county zoning for agricultural use and for selling from your property
- Some states restrict moving certain trees or soil because of pests, so check quarantine rules
- General liability and crop or farm insurance
- Money is tied up in trees for a few years, and a hard winter or drought can mean losses
🔒 Full research report for US
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 landscape tree nursery?
Startup costs are typically around $5,000 to $30,000, depending on your land, irrigation, equipment and the trees you buy or propagate. These are estimates. Money is tied up in trees for a few years before you can sell them.
How much can a landscape tree nursery earn?
Monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on tree size, variety and how many landscapers and garden centers you sell to. This is an estimate. Plan on at least about 12 hours a week of work.
What licenses or rules apply to selling landscape trees in the US?
Check whether your state requires a nursery license or inspection before you sell. Also check county zoning for agricultural use and selling from your property, pest quarantine rules on moving trees or soil, and insurance such as general liability.
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Photo: manfredrichter on Pixabay