Nursery Owners and Managers

Employers

Nurseries and garden centers are located throughout the nation. Many of these establishments are family owned. Members of younger generations are trained in the business of providing gardening and landscaping products and services, eventually becoming managers and owners of the company. Employment can also be obtained at nationwide home improvement chains such as Home Depot, Menards, and Lowe's. Skilled and knowledgeable managers are needed to run the stores' year-round garden and nursery departments.

Starting Out

Few people start their career as a nursery owner or manager. Many people enter the industry by working as horticultural technicians, sales workers, designers, or assistant managers. Once they gain enough experience, they may be promoted to managerial positions. Others, especially those with advanced degrees, may start at the managerial level, or may opt to invest in their own business.

Owning a franchise is another way of starting a business without a large capital investment, as franchise agreements often involve some assistance in planning and start-up costs. Franchise operations, however, are not necessarily less expensive to run than a totally independent business.