Nursery Owners and Managers

High School

A high school diploma is important in order to understand the basics of business ownership and management, and further study of horticulture in a community college will give you an advantage in a tight market, though there are no specific educational or experiential requirements for this position. Course work in business administration is helpful, as is previous experience in the retail trade. Hard work, constant analysis and evaluation, and sufficient capital are important elements of a successful business venture.

If you are interested in owning or managing a business, you should take courses in mathematics, business management, and in business-related subjects, such as accounting, typing, and computer science. In addition, pursue English and other courses that enhance your communication skills. Specific skill areas also should be developed. For example, if you want to own or manage a nursery, you should learn as much about horticulture as possible.

Owners of small retail businesses often manage the store and work behind the counter. In such a case, the owner of a nursery may wear many hats, acting as the horticultural technician, laborer, and landscape designer, as well.

Postsecondary Training

As the business environment gets more and more competitive, many people are opting for an academic degree as a way of getting more training. A bachelor's program emphasizing business communications, marketing, business law, business management, and accounting should be pursued. Some people choose to get a master's in business administration or other related graduate degree. There are also special business schools that offer one- or two-year programs in business management. Some correspondence schools also offer courses on how to plan and run a business. If you are interested in owning or managing a nursery or garden center, it is important that you take courses or earn a degree in horticulture or a related field.