Pond and water garden supply store

Homeowners building or fixing a pond, landscapers, koi and goldfish hobbyists and people with fountains or water features.

Retail margin on products and plants, with extra from cut-to-size liner by the foot, seasonal maintenance supplies and trade accounts with local landscapers.

• Pond building and maintenance know-how
• Retail stock control and buying
• Customer service and advice

• Check city or county business license, zoning and signage rules for retail and outdoor displays
• Selling live fish and plants may need state or local permits, and some aquatic plants are restricted as invasive, so check your state agriculture department
• Business is seasonal in many areas, so plan cash flow for slow winter months
• Check general liability and property insurance, plus workers' compensation once you hire staff
• Rent, stock and tanks for livestock are significant upfront costs, so start with a modest range

Startup costs are typically around $20,000 to $90,000, depending on rent, stock and tanks for livestock. These are significant upfront costs, so it may help to start with a modest range and build stock as sales come in.

Monthly revenue is typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on your location, product range and the time of year. Business is seasonal in many areas, so plan your cash flow for slow winter months.

Check your city or county business license, zoning and signage rules for retail and outdoor displays. Selling live fish and plants may need state or local permits, and some aquatic plants are restricted as invasive, so check your state agriculture department.