How to Open an Organic Garden Center

Starting an organic garden center can be a lucrative business. People often seek organic fruits and vegetables because they are concerned with the amount of pesticides on processed produce. One must usually have the proper certifications, knowledge and experience to run a successful business.

• Obtain a certified producer certificate from a state or government agricultural department. Certifications are not necessarily required, but check with your local government to make sure. Selling certified produce can attract more customers.


• Determine if the business will be open all year or not. Some produce sellers only stay open during warm seasons.


• Talk to the city and state government about licensing. Licenses are usually required for businesses. What licenses are needed and how much they cost depends on the state or city a person lives in.


• Figure out what types of produce to sell. If you plan to grow your own produce for the store using organic methods, the store will only be able to sell fruits that thrive in the area where you live. If a person chooses to sell all types of organic produce, they’ll have to find ways to import some items from other areas.


• In addition to offering organic produce and plants, offer gardening supplies, organic soils and fertilizers for those customers that are interested in starting their own organic garden.


• Advertise using a variety of methods. In order for the store to be successful people need to know about it. One way to get the word out is to advertise with local media. Talk about the health and flavor benefits that organic produce offers. Many people would love to have organic produce, but simply don’t know where to find it. Tell them about your business.