When starting a landscaping business, the first step is to create a plan. It doesn't need to be as comprehensive as a traditional business plan, but it's worth outlining a general idea of what areas you plan to serve, the services you plan to offer, your areas of expertise, the tools and equipment you'll need to get started, your budget, and how you plan to market your business and acquire customers.
For example, here is a list of items you will need to start a landscaping business:
Pickup truck: $30,766 Lawn mower: $350 to $1,499 Trimmer: $169 to $249 Edger: $109 to $119 Blower: $109 to $409 Two gasoline cans (one for regular fuel and one for a fuel mix for the trimmer and edger): $25 Shovel: $13 to $34 Shears: $13 to $32 Rake: $12 to $28 Work gloves: $12 to $15 Noise-canceling headphones: $89 Safety goggles: $3 to $13 Steel-toed boots: $76 to $83
Of course, if you have employees, you may need more tools, for example, multiple blowers and edgers, various rakes, etc. On top of that, you will also need funds to purchase materials and products like fertilizers, pesticides, plants, flowers, etc. depending on your customers' needs.
Generally, depending on how much equipment you already own, it's best to expect to need $10,000 to start your business. This includes the necessary equipment, business setup, insurance, website development, and your initial marketing campaign.