How To Make $56,000 Growing Woody Ornamentals
Growing woody ornamentals can be a fruitful venture, both literally and figuratively. As a passionate gardener, I’ve discovered that cultivating trees and shrubs not only beautifies our surroundings but can also lead to substantial profits.
With over 100 species of woody ornamentals grown commercially, how does a new grower choose the best ones? The first step is to do a quick screen to make sure the plant you want to grow will do well in your “microclimate” of soil type, plant hardiness zone, and sun exposure.
Over the years, I’ve explored various aspects of this business, and today, I’m excited to share my journey with you. Let’s delve into the world of woody ornamentals and uncover how you can potentially make $56,000 growing them!
Willow Stems
The Allure of Woody Ornamentals
Woody ornamentals are more than just plants; they are living investments that add character to landscapes. From elegant trees that provide shade to vibrant shrubs that enhance curb appeal, the market for these plants continues to thrive. Whether you’re considering starting a new business or adding to your existing one, growing these beauties can be quite rewarding.
But what makes this niche so lucrative? For starters, the demand for landscaping has surged, driven by homeowners seeking to enhance their properties and commercial developers looking to create attractive environments. With the right strategies and a bit of know-how, you could tap into this lucrative market.
Why Start Growing Woody Ornamentals?
You might be wondering, “Is this the right venture for me?” The answer lies in your passion for plants and your willingness to learn. Growing woody ornamentals offers numerous benefits that can translate into profits. Here are a few reasons why this could be your golden ticket:
- Diverse Market Opportunities: The demand for various types of woody ornamentals, from flowering trees to hardy shrubs, means you have plenty of options to choose from. This diversity can help you cater to different customer preferences.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, many woody ornamentals require minimal care, making them relatively easy to grow. This can free up your time for other business activities or personal pursuits.
- Sustainability Factor: With the increasing focus on eco-friendly practices, growing native or organic plants can attract environmentally conscious consumers.
- Steady Income: If you manage your operations efficiently, you can achieve a steady stream of income throughout the year. Many plants can be sold in different sizes and at various stages of growth, allowing you to optimize your profits.
The Roadmap to Success in Growing Woody Ornamentals
Embarking on the journey to grow woody ornamentals requires careful planning. Let me walk you through some essential steps that can pave the way to your success.
1. Research and Selection
Before you get your hands dirty, research is crucial. Investigate the market demand for different types of woody ornamentals in your area. Consider factors like climate, soil conditions, and consumer preferences. Popular choices often include flowering trees like dogwoods and fruiting shrubs like blueberries.
Creating a table of popular woody ornamentals can help you visualize options and potential profits:
| Plant Type | Average Price per Plant | Ideal Growing Conditions |
| Dogwood | $50 | Well-drained soil, full sun |
| Blueberry | $20 | Acidic soil, partial shade |
| Oak Tree | $100 | Well-drained soil, full sun |
| Hydrangea | $30 | Moist, well-drained soil |
2. Start Small, Grow Big
While it might be tempting to jump in with both feet, starting small can be a smart move. Begin with a manageable number of plants to learn the ropes. This approach allows you to hone your skills and gain confidence without overwhelming yourself.
Once you’ve established a solid foundation, gradually expand your offerings. You’ll learn which plants thrive in your environment and which ones resonate with your customers.
3. Proper Care and Maintenance
Growing healthy woody ornamentals requires attention to detail. Regular watering, pruning, and pest management are essential to ensure your plants flourish. Investing in quality soil and fertilizers can make a world of difference.
Keep a maintenance log to track your plants’ growth, watering schedules, and any treatments applied. This will help you stay organized and assess the effectiveness of your care strategies.
4. Marketing Your Plants
Marketing is where the magic happens! With your beautiful plants ready to go, it’s time to showcase them to potential customers. Here are a few effective marketing strategies that I’ve found useful:
- Create a Website: An online presence can help attract customers. Use your website to showcase your offerings, share gardening tips, and engage with your audience.
- Utilize Social Media: Platforms like Instagram and Facebook can showcase your plants in stunning photos. Share your gardening journey, post updates, and engage with followers.
- Attend Local Farmers’ Markets: Set up a booth at local events to connect with customers directly. This allows you to showcase your plants while building relationships within the community.
- Network with Landscapers and Garden Centers: Building relationships with professionals in the industry can open doors to wholesale opportunities and larger sales.
5. Explore Value-Added Products
While selling plants is a great start, consider diversifying your income by offering value-added products. Here are some ideas:
- Plant Care Kits: Create kits that include soil, fertilizers, and care instructions for your plants. This not only adds value but also educates your customers on proper care.
- Workshops: Host workshops to teach others how to grow and care for woody ornamentals. This can establish you as an expert and create an additional income stream.
- Landscaping Services: If you have experience, offer landscaping services to clients looking to beautify their spaces with your plants.
6. Keep Track of Finances
Tracking your finances is crucial for understanding your profitability. Keep a detailed record of your expenses, sales, and profits. This information will help you identify trends, adjust your strategies, and set realistic financial goals.
Creating a simple spreadsheet can help you monitor your income and expenses effectively. Regularly reviewing this information allows you to make informed decisions for your growing business.
Key Points in Growing Woody Ornamentals
Here are a few pointers for prospective willow growers to consider:
- Willows prefer a deep, rich soil with adequate water. A drip irrigation system can boost production at drier sites.
- Willow plants are started from dormant 12 inch cuttings taken from 1 year old willow shoots.
- Cuttings are planted in the dormant season – November to March – by simply sticking them in the ground with 9 inches of the stem buried. A metal planting rod is used to make sure the bark is not damaged.
- Basketry willows can be planted as densely as 10-12 inches apart, with just a 3 foot spacing between rows.
- New plants are cut back to the ground at the end of the first season to ensure multiple stem growth the next year.
- Willow plants have a 20 year lifespan before replacement is necessary.
- Deer are the biggest pest problem, but can be controlled effectively with an electric fence. Visit gallagherusa.com to learn how to keep these critters out without spending a fortune.
- Harvested willow stems, also called rods, are sold by the pound and sorted by length and variety.
Conclusion: Your Path to Profit
Growing woody ornamentals can be an incredibly fulfilling and profitable venture. With passion, dedication, and a little know-how, you can potentially earn $56,000 or more from this endeavor.
By researching the market, starting small, providing excellent care, and effectively marketing your products, you’ll be well on your way to success. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to dig in; a rewarding journey awaits you in the world of woody ornamentals! Whether you’re enhancing your own garden or launching a business, the possibilities are as vast as the gardens you’ll cultivate.
