Made from Scratch: How to Start and Operate a Successful Organic Container Plant Business

This comprehensive guide takes you step-by-step through the whole process of how to start and operate a successful organic plant growing business using containers. Chapters thoroughly cover such topics as: start-up, greenhouse options, certification/licenses/fees, botany basics, growing container plants, making compost, disease and pest management, demonstration gardens, marketing and merchandising, dealing with employees, and safety. Appendices include example activity logs and forms, instructions for making a soil-texture analysis, and even tips for creating a simple employee handbook. An extensive list of resources and a handy glossary round out this information-packed manual.

Louise Placek undertook the transition from a 20-year, traditional career in nursing to the unknown world of owning and operating a small container plant business. Now, to help others with the same goal, she shares her extensive knowledge and experience in regard to becoming a successful organic plant grower and business owner. With her husband Chris, she bought a hilly, 22-acre site with sandy loam soil, lots of prairie grasses, an oak and cedar woodland with wonderful wildflowers and a 50-mile view. Misty Hill Farm and the container business grew into a successful commercial venture all without the use of the standard industry chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Louise had a mission to grow outstanding plants commercially using only natural, earth-made products. A challenge at times - because there wasn't a manual or mentor to turn to - but it has become a very worthy cause. This book will show you how.