If you are the type of person that enjoys working in the backyard handling grass, plants, trees and shrubs, then making a living in the gardening industry might be ideally suited for you. It is very easy to turn an enjoyable hobby or pastime into a part-time or full-time career. Not only will you be able to enjoy your days doing exactly what you love, but will get paid in the process.
If you are the kind of individual that does not mind tackling a bit of hard work, and getting your hands dirty, it is very easy to earn a substantial living as a gardener. You will be able to select the hours you wish to work, and choose the type of gardening that suits you best. Below you will find some handy suggestions on the best way to begin making money in the gardening industry.
Get Started
You likely already have the tools you need in your garage or gardening shed. You will likely not need many additional tools, if any at all, then what you are already using to maintain the yard. The basic tools that will be required will be shovels, rakes, loppers, clippers, a broom, and maybe a blower.
Initially, it makes good sense to begin the process of becoming a professional gardener with the tools you already have, instead of spending huge amounts of money right at the start. The initial process of becoming a professional gardener is more about obtaining the customers and generating income, and not wasting money on purchasing new equipment when it is not needed right away.
The Next Step
It is a good idea to purchase a quality calendar, and an invoice book. This will provide the opportunity to keep detailed records for every business transaction and to track all the scheduling dates in your business. Be sure to have the ideal spot to keep all of your receipts gathered together in a single location. This will make it significantly easier at tax time, to rectify all of your outgoing expenses with your gardening income.
Business cards are essential to generating new gardening work from prospective clients. A box of 500 business cards can be relatively inexpensive, and can be made on your home computer if you have a printer. The supplies for business cards are offered at the office supply retail store. Hand them out to every individual you come across, and be sure to list every service that you provide.
Starting Work
Before you can get started, you will need to ensure that you are wearing good footwear. It is probably best to make an investment in a good pair of work boots. However athletic shoes that are in good condition can work just as well. You will need a good pair of gloves that are sturdy to handle six or eight hours of continuous gardening work every day. If thorny plants play a significant role in your day-to-day activities, make sure the gloves are durable enough to handle getting poked.
Getting your name out there is the easiest way to get started in the gardening industry.