Are you diving into the world of greenhouse operations, or perhaps you’re considering starting a nursery in the vibrant central Florida region? The journey can feel overwhelming, especially with many factors to consider. From understanding your crops’ specific growing conditions to managing pests and diseases, there’s a lot to take in. You’ll also need to familiarize yourself with soil types, growing structures, environmental controls, and irrigation systems. And let’s not forget about the markets. Where will you sell your products? While this checklist might seem daunting, we’ve compiled a collection of valuable resources to help you navigate the startup and expansion of your greenhouse or nursery business. Below, we provide specific resources for business planning, as well as information on greenhouse structures and environments.
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– Business Planning Resources –
UF/IFAS Small Farms Program
The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) provides a wealth of educational resources and research-based guidance, focusing on sustainable production systems, effective marketing strategies, and farm business operations. The UF/IFAS Small Farms Program is dedicated to enhancing Florida’s small farm ecosystem.
Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at UCF
If you’re looking for consulting services to create a business plan, the Florida SBDC at UCF is an excellent resource for prospective business owners. They can assist you with business planning, marketing, and funding strategies, serving counties including Brevard, Flagler, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Sumter, and Volusia.
– Greenhouse Structures and Environmental Systems –
Understanding the physical structure and environmental controls of your greenhouse is necessary for optimal plant growth. Research specialists from the UF/IFAS Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering Dept. created a series of informative fact sheets covering essential greenhouse structure and environment topics:
Florida Greenhouse Design – https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AE016
Physical Greenhouse Design Considerations—Florida Greenhouse Vegetable Production Handbook, Vol 2 – https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/CV254
Fans for Greenhouses – https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AE020
Fan and Pad Greenhouse Evaporative Cooling Systems – https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AE069
Greenhouse Ventilation – https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AE030
Heating Greenhouses – https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AE015
Greenhouse Heating Checklist – https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AE025
Auxiliary Power Units For Greenhouse Operations – https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AE033
Maintenance Guide for Greenhouse Ventilation, Evaporative Cooling Heating Systems – https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AE024
– Networking opportunities to learn more about nursery and greenhouse operations –
Connecting with fellow growers can provide invaluable insights. Consider the following organizations:
FNGLA Action Chapter
Join the FNGLA Action Chapter to engage with an active community of growers. Their monthly meetings, which often include tours of local greenhouses and nurseries, are rich with information and networking opportunities.
International Plant Production Society (IPPS) Southern Region
This organization offers a platform for networking and learning for anyone involved in plant production. Their Southeast Regional Conference includes two full days dedicated to touring various nursery and greenhouse operations. It’s an excellent chance to learn from the shared experiences of fellow growers.
Embarking on a greenhouse or nursery venture in central Florida can be both exciting and challenging. With the right resources and connections, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate this rewarding industry. Utilize the links provided, engage with other professionals, and don’t hesitate to tap into the wealth of knowledge available by UF/IFAS Extension and the local community of growers. Here’s to your success in growing a thriving greenhouse or nursery business!
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