The nursery industry in Virginia has enjoyed an extended period of growth and expansion. Consequently, there is considerable interest in and some potential for new business opportunities in the industry. Another consequence of this period of economic growth is an increase in competition within the industry to supply the growing demand for landscape plants. Those interested in getting into the nursery business are strongly encouraged to invest their time and energy into learning as much as they can about the modern nursery industry, and the many options now available in nursery production, before they invest any money in facilities and operations.

The Virginia Small Business Development Center Network
of the Virginia Department of Business Assistance
coordinates an extensive network of centers statewide that provide a broad range of business counseling
and technical assistance to new or existing small businesses. In the early stages of establishing a business,
the SBDCs within the Virginia network can provide assistance with the preparation of a business plan, marketing assistance, guidance with researching and approaching business financing sources, site location analysis, licensing and regulation information, and cash flow and tax counseling. Many SBDCs also offer specialized training workshops on various business topics, including bookkeeping, personnel management and utilizing computers. For more information and addresses of regional SBDC offices, call the SBDC State Director at (804) 371-8251 or visit their website: www.virginiasbdc.org/

The trees and shrubs on your new home site are growing poorly, so you take samples to the Extension office and the agent suggests a soil test. Test results show that your soil has a pH of 4.5, which is rated as strongly acid. The agent suggests you either take corrective action to raise the pH or grow different plants.

Parking lots and paved areas are essential urban features that tend to be unsightly in their basic form. Municipal ordinances often mandate specific amounts of parking for different types of commercial or residential land use, as well as landscaping for these parking areas. Landscaping in and around parking lots and pavement improves appearance, prevents soil erosion, and reduces carbon dioxide through photosynthesis. Planted areas also reduce storm water drainage problems, reduce the detrimental effects of wind and noise, and enhance human comfort by providing heat-reducing shade.