Originally posted on https://homebusinessmag.com/business-start-up/how-to-guides/start-lawn-care-business/

Do you have the dream of owning your own business? Do manicured lawns and lush green grass fascinate you? Combine the two and you may have the recipe for a business start-up.

You can start a lawn care business on a shoe-string (almost). You might even have some of the equipment in your garage right now! And lawn care is a service most homeowners and businesses need.

In the U.S., more than 15 million people work full time in their own business. If you dream of joining them and feel comfortable behind a mower, take a minute and learn more about how to start a lawn mowing business.

Starting from Scratch

One question would-be lawn care business owners want an answer for is how much capital they need for the start-up. In short, it depends on whether you intend to start out with used or brand-new equipment. It’s possible to open your business with less than a few thousand dollars.

Here are a few things you’ll need to service your first customers:

• Commercial Grade Lawn Mower
• Truck
• Trailer

These are the more costly items, but you should also invest in a quality trimmer, blower, edger, and hedge trimmer. You’ll also need an array of small landscaping tools. And don’t forget branded shirts and hats.

Experts in the business, like Canberra Mower Centre, recommend purchasing your equipment from a supplier that also offers service. You’ll extend the life of your mower and other equipment when you schedule routine service.

In addition to your tools, you’ll have marketing costs, business license, possible permits, and insurance.

Know Your Customer

Since location is critical, you’ll want to know the location of your prospective customers. As a start-up, you want to keep costs down. You can do that, in part, by setting up your business in the area where your customers live and work.

Ride time is a factor. You’ll cover the fuel and labor costs for the time you and your employees spend traveling from job to job. Centralize your business location and you can keep those costs down.

Also, location counts when you put together your marketing plan. If you market your business as a local service, get to know other local businesses. Give back to your local community.

Local people look after each other. Knowing your customers and your fellow business owners helps set you up for success.

The Green Niche

New business owners must figure out how to stand out from the competition. One way you can do that is by starting an environmentally friendly lawn care business.

Often called green lawn care, this is a niche market, and a growing market as well. There are even a few national companies entering this specialty market.

You’ll use environmentally-friendly equipment powered by electricity instead of fossil fuels. You’ll also educate clients on eco-friendly lawn care options.

Organic fertilizers, composting yard waste, and water conservations are all topics a green entrepreneur should learn about.

If you position your business well in this growing niche, you’ll not only provide a service that’s good for the earth, you may discover it’s also good for your bank account.

Start Your Lawn Care Business Today

As you can see, this is a business that won’t cost a fortune at start-up. It can also turn into a lucrative and rewarding business venture.

With a low initial investment, the right equipment, and a commitment to getting to know your local customers, starting a lawn care business could be your ticket to success.

If you enjoyed this post, check out our archives where you’ll find how-to guides, marketing ideas, and other helpful tips for entrepreneurs.