Business Management

Excellent business management skills and solid industry knowledge are key for operating a prosperous lawn maintenance business. On this page, find information on getting started in the landscape business, access employee training resources, and learn more about the green industry. Tips on bidding fall turf renovations and services are available as well.

Getting Started in the Lawn Care Industry

Getting started with lawn maintenance and management requires careful planning. The first step is to develop a business plan. Most business plans for the green industry address description of services, industry market and trends, marketing and management, finances, and sustainability. Note that the plan should be an ongoing review of the business that is kept up to date.

Along with writing a solid plan, it is worth focusing on how to be an effective manager for your team. Consider invaluable tactics such as implementing time management techniques, setting goals, and providing staff training.

Another important factor to keep in mind is local pesticide laws and licensure requirements. Overall, general-use pesticides can be purchased and used by the general public. Restricted use pesticides (RUPs) may cause serious pesticide poisoning and can, therefore, be used only by certified applicators.

Landscapers and Lawn Care Professionals Resources

Penn State Extension offers prospective landscapers and lawn care professionals assistance through various guides, conferences, and workshops. Join the Landscape Update or attend the Landscaping Field Day to learn about pest identification, disease management, and turf weed control.

Extensive information on various topics is available, such as bidding fall turf renovations and services, staying up-to-date on the latest lawn care industry research and technology, and working with a registered technician.

Additionally, Penn State provides turfgrass related diagnostic and testing services including disease identification, as well as water quality and soil testing.

Landscaping and Turfgrass Maintenance Training

Proper industry and technical knowledge stand at the core of any successful business. Penn State Extension assists prospective landscapers and lawn care professionals in obtaining valuable training, skills, and educational opportunities.

Preventing and managing pests – including insects and weeds – is among the most challenging lawn care issues. Learning how to develop an integrated pest management program can help achieve effective pest control with minimal environmental impact.

Additional research-based information can be obtained during the landscape pest identification walk or the professional pest managers' school session. Resources and online training on controlling weeds and diagnosing plant health problems, including disease signs and symptoms can be found, as well.

Ensuring adequate training is provided to your whole team is another crucial aspect. Penn State Extension’s online training for landscape employees includes establishing lawns, as well as planting, mulching, and watering new plants.