How to Start a Landscape Design Business

Take classes that involve landscape designing at your local college. The classes will teach you how to use software for designs, weather, diseases that plants attract and other courses that will prepare you for the business once you start it.

1. Take classes that involve landscape designing at your local college. The classes will teach you how to use software for designs, weather, diseases that plants attract and other courses that will prepare you for the business once you start it.


2. Further your education by obtaining a degree in landscape architecture, which will prepare you for making money by more professional designing.


3. After obtaining some education, find a mentor that you can work with to get hands on experience in the field. The education and mentoring will prepare you for the Landscape Architect Registration Exam or LARE.


4. Register for and pass the LARE. It will test your readiness for the field. You will obtain your landscape architect license once you pass. The American Society of Landscape Architects will have more information.


5. Write a detailed business plan for your business. The plan should include how you will run the business, your future goals, advertising and finances. The plan will help the business grow.


6. Check with your local city clerk to apply for a business license. You will have to register your business name when you apply. Apply for a tax identification number with the Internal Revenue Service and open a business bank account for the business.


7. Obtain money to start the business from banks, credit unions and investors. You will need money to obtain a building, equipment and other necessities for the business.


8. Find a location to run the business or talk to a commercial real estate agent. Purchase insurance for the business. Speak to an insurance agent to help you determine your insurance needs if you are unsure.


9. Hire staff and purchase the equipment you will need to successfully run the business.


10. Join different organizations so you can begin networking and obtaining customers. The American Society of Landscape Architects is a good organization to join. You can make people to your business through them. Also market and advertise in other ways. Print business cards, create a website and post flyers around neighborhoods.