The lawn and garden industry is huge. Large retail chains like Lowe's and Home Depot are everywhere, including online. If you plan to become a lawn and garden retailer, you need to compete with existing companies.

In order to do this, you need to research market trends, products and manufacturers of lawn and garden products. You also need to decide whether to sell general lawn and garden equipment and accessories or specialty lawn and garden products. Research your possible clientèle to find out what they want and need before you decide what to sell. Remember, also, to price products to sell, but also to make a profit.

There are many things to think about before becoming a lawn and garden retailer. Not only do you need to please clients and offer products at great prices, you need to buy products that will sell. Here are a few tips to help you do that.

1. Include specific details about your lawn and garden store in your business plan. This helps you focus on the type of products you want to sell. It also helps you make financial projections.

2. Buy the best lawn and garden equipment for the best prices. Compare and shop around to find some great bargains, and remember to consider wholesalers.

3. Appeal to all customers. Stock your store with lawn and garden items that will attract a large variety of clientèle.

4. Consider selling name brand lawn and garden products. Consumers feel comfortable buying products they already know and trust.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Create a business plan for your lawn and garden store

Whether you have a street address or an online address, you need a business plan to start a business. This will help you understand what you want to achieve, and it will help you project long term financial goals

I recommend: Lawn and garden business plan software is available from companies like Interstellar Solutions and 125aDay.Com. Sample business plans are available online at MoreBusiness.com. Here you can view a sample business plan before deciding to buy the Palo Alto Software that created it.

Buy directly from lawn and garden wholesalers

To get the most lawn and garden products for your money, buy them directly from a wholesaler.

I recommend: Wholesale Garden Supplies sells only to lawn and garden distributors, not to individual consumers. They offer a large selection of products, from rakes to animal and insect control. In order to view pricing, you do need to register your business information. For specialty lawn and garden products, like planters and fountains, visit Home and Garden Wholesale. Again, you must register your company information to view pricing. AE Wholesale, Inc. also offers specialty items, like furniture and hammocks as well as birdhouses. This company only sells to lawn and garden dealers.

Remember to offer lawn and garden products that are environmentally friendly

Green products are good for the environment. Many customers will be interested in green products, especially the ones that do not use gas.

I recommend: Garden Power Corporation has a nice selection of rechargeable mowers. Planet Natural offers environment-friendly garden products, like natural pest controls. Clean Air Gardening has everything you need to go green. From an electric lawn mower to organic fertilizer, this company specializes in eco-friendly products.

Consider buying lawn and garden tractors from manufacturers

Everyone who owns a home needs a tractor or lawn mower. Home garden and lawn stores need to offer a variety of these products. If you want to carry name brands, consider buying directly from the manufacturer.

I recommend: Cub Cadet, John Deere, The Toro Company and Husqvarna are all well-known lawn and garden tractors. Consider selling well-known products. Some customers will be more inclined to buy products with which they are familiar.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Check out the competition. Visit local lawn and garden distributors to see what products they sell, and to see how they price their products.
• •  Display similar items together. If you sell lawn and garden bags, place them near tractors and mowers.