If you like the sound of being your own boss, working in the great outdoors and helping people improve their surroundings, a gardening franchise could be right up your street. Quite literally in fact – because you may find friends and neighbours provide the perfect opportunity to build up a client base, grow your reputation and get your new business off the ground through word of mouth right from the outset.

Of course, it helps if you have green fingers already, but many franchisors will offer the training, expertise and support you need to get going. Franchise costs often cover tools and machinery too, so unlike starting your own company from scratch, everything will be in place from day one – a ready made operation for you to take control of. Administration practicalities should also be carefully considered when weighing up new business opportunities. Without the framework and structure of an established business behind you, hours could be wasted as you trawl Internet FAQ sections, call helplines and read pamphlets to find financial advice and marketing tips. With a franchise, you should find the day-to-day running of your business a little easier, and customers easier to come by.

Though it’s a good idea to offer a range of services, you may find that you are particularly good at a specific gardening discipline. Perhaps you’re a natural when it comes to lawn care, maybe trees and shrubbery respond to your magic touch, or could landscaping and design be your forte? Many customers will keep coming back for more over the years, so be sure to get the first job right!

As a year round opportunity, gardening provides seasonal challenges – but also countless perks. What better way to earn a living than cutting, mowing, trimming, pruning or planting with the sun on your back? As a franchisee, you’re likely to be given a dedicated sales area: your own plot of marketing space, if you will. That, and the fact that you’ll have a friendly ear to talk to if you need help, makes franchising an appealing investment and one that could pay off handsomely if you’re willing to put in the work needed.

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