Do you love spending your time in the garden or on an allotment? Is there nothing more satisfying to you than watching something grow after you’ve put all the time and energy into ensuring that it does so safely?
People invest time in growing gardens, herbs, and vegetables. You may already be working to protect your plants from pests, weeds, the seasons, and more. So, why not make a little money from what you already do? You could make a eco-friendly, engaging, and profitable business with these side hustles for people who like gardening.
Selling Plants and Flowers
Starting a small nursery can be a delightful and profitable venture. You can sell a mix of plants, from indoor plants to garden shrubs, catering to different tastes and preferences. Additionally, growing and selling bouquets of fresh flowers to local florists, farmers’ markets, or through a subscription service can provide a steady income stream while brightening up your community with your beautiful blooms.
Herbs and Vegetables
Growing vegetables, fruits, or herbs and selling them at farmers’ markets or local restaurants is a rewarding way to share your harvest. For those who enjoy a more creative approach, consider creating and selling DIY herb garden kits complete with seeds, pots, and soil.
These kits make great gifts and encourage others to start their gardening journey. For inspiration, look at how people on Etsy are selling these kits.
Garden Maintenance Services
Offering lawn care services such as mowing, weeding, and general garden maintenance can be a lucrative side hustle. Many homeowners are willing to pay for regular upkeep of their gardens. If you have an eye for design, providing garden design and landscaping services can help homeowners transform their outdoor spaces into beautiful, functional areas.
Teaching and Workshops
Hosting gardening workshops or online classes is a great way to share your knowledge and passion. You can teach various topics, from basic gardening techniques to advanced plant care and sustainable practices.
Additionally, creating gardening programs for schools or community centres can inspire the next generation of gardeners and foster a love for nature in children.
Crafting with Plants
If you enjoy crafting, making and selling terrariums, decorative planters, or vertical gardens can be a fulfilling side hustle. Another creative avenue is to create art pieces, bookmarks, or greeting cards using pressed flowers and leaves. These unique items can be sold online or at local craft fairs.
Specialised Gardening
For those with expertise in organic gardening, offering products like organic compost or pest control solutions can cater to the growing demand for sustainable gardening practices. Alternatively, selling hydroponic systems or providing consultancy on indoor gardening setups can appeal to urban dwellers looking to grow their own food indoors.
Blogging and Content Creation
Starting a gardening blog is an excellent way to share tips, tutorials, and personal experiences with a wider audience. If you prefer visual content, creating a YouTube channel to showcase gardening projects, how-tos, and garden tours can attract followers and potential sponsors, turning your passion into a profitable venture.
Community Gardens
If you have a large space, consider renting out garden plots to community members who lack their own gardening space. This can create a sense of community and provide a valuable service. Additionally, starting a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program where members subscribe to receive regular shares of your garden’s produce can provide a steady income and promote local, sustainable food production.
Composting Services
Creating and selling high-quality compost can be a practical side hustle, especially as more people become interested in sustainable living. You can also teach composting workshops to help others learn how to compost effectively at home, promoting environmentally friendly practices.
Garden Consultancy
Offering personalised garden plans and consultancy services can help individuals design and maintain their gardens according to their specific needs and preferences. Additionally, providing advice on dealing with common garden pests and diseases organically can position you as a trusted expert in your community.
Do You Need a License to be a Gardener in the UK?
In the UK, you do not need a specific license to work as a gardener. However, there are several considerations and certifications that can enhance your credibility and ensure you are operating legally and professionally.
Legal Considerations
Business Registration:
If you are working as a self-employed gardener, you need to register with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) as self-employed for tax purposes.
Insurance:
Public Liability Insurance: This covers you in case you accidentally cause damage to someone’s property or injure someone while working.
Professional Indemnity Insurance: This covers any legal costs if a client sues you for a mistake you make during your work.
Employers’ Liability Insurance: If you employ staff, this insurance is legally required to cover work-related injuries or illnesses.
Waste Carrier License:
If you plan to remove and dispose of garden waste for clients, you need to register for a waste carrier license from the Environment Agency.
Certifications and Training
While not legally required, obtaining certifications can enhance your skills, knowledge, and credibility. Some respected qualifications include:
RHS Certificates:
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) offers a range of qualifications, including the RHS Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture, which is well-regarded in the industry.
City & Guilds:
City & Guilds offers various horticulture and gardening courses that provide practical and theoretical knowledge.
LANTRA Awards:
LANTRA offers training courses in horticulture, landscaping, and related machinery use, which can be beneficial for professional development.
PA1 and PA6 Certificates:
If you plan to use pesticides or herbicides, you must obtain the PA1 and PA6 certificates, which demonstrate that you are trained in the safe use and application of these chemicals.
Other Considerations
Health and Safety:
Familiarise yourself with health and safety regulations to ensure your work practices protect you, your clients, and the public.
Marketing and Networking:
Joining professional bodies such as the Gardeners Guild can provide networking opportunities and access to resources that help grow your business.
Continuous Professional Development (CPD):
Staying updated with the latest gardening techniques, trends, and regulations is essential. Engaging in CPD activities helps you maintain high standards and improve your service offerings.
By addressing these considerations and obtaining relevant certifications, you can enhance your reputation and potentially attract more clients, making your gardening business more successful and professional.
These side hustles can be started with minimal investment and can grow over time based on your interests and market demand. By turning your gardening passion into a side hustle, you can enjoy the benefits of extra income while sharing your love for plants and nature with others.
