Nursery owners, 5-9 employees

What does a nursery owner do – tasks and working environment

A nursery owner with 5–9 employees is responsible for running and developing a small gardening business focused on cultivation, sales, and distribution of plants. Tasks include planning production, purchasing plant materials, managing staff, marketing, and customer relations. The role also involves financial follow-up, handling machinery and equipment, and quality control of products. The work environment is often outdoor-based and characterized by seasonal variations, with periods of intense workload during spring and summer mixed with quieter times in winter. The environment can be physically demanding and requires good planning skills and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for a nursery owner with 5–9 employees has steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 26,500 SEK per month, while in 2023 it rose to 27 600. The latest year, 2024, the average salary has reached 29 300, which corresponds to a total increase of approximately 10.6% over the three-year period. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for sustainable and locally produced plants, as well as a growing interest in gardening in society. The need for qualified management and broad competence among nursery owners has also contributed to higher salary levels in the profession. Despite the good salary development, certain gender differences remain, with women earning on average 92% of men's salaries.

Nursery owner, 5-9 employees salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 29 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 28,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 30,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 176 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 92% of what men do
• Regional differences: Data is missing or limited

Education and qualifications

To work as a nursery owner, a combination of formal education in horticulture and practical experience is usually required. Many have a high school education in natural resource management with a focus on gardening, supplemented with further training, courses, and internships. Entrepreneurship and leadership are important skills, as well as knowledge in economics and marketing. There is also an opportunity to build on shorter courses or self-study in specific areas such as plant protection, logistics, and sales.

• High school education: Natural resource management program with a focus on gardening (3 years)
• Further training: Vocational college or shorter courses in gardening, entrepreneurship, and leadership
• Certifications: Plant protection courses, machinery operator licenses
• Internship: Work experience from gardening companies or nurseries is recommended
• Entrepreneurship: Basic knowledge in economics and business development is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Within the profession, benefits such as employee discounts on plants and garden products, flexible working hours during the low season, and opportunities for further training are often offered. Some employers provide wellness contributions, work clothing, and the chance to participate in the company's development, especially in smaller businesses with flat ownership structures.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the nursery industry is relatively high, especially in areas with many operators and proximity to larger cities. Challenges can include weather-dependent production, fluctuating demand, and increased requirements for sustainability and environmental certification. Digitalization and development of new sales channels require nursery owners to be adaptable and willing to invest in new technology. Additionally, recruiting staff with the right competence during peak season can be difficult, and the lack of reliable salary statistics sometimes makes it complicated to compare conditions between regions.

Tips for those who want to become a nursery owner, 5-9 employees

To succeed as a nursery owner with 5–9 employees, it is good to be both driven and organized, as the role requires planning of both production and personnel. A genuine interest in plants and cultivation facilitates staying updated and developing the business. Good communication skills and leadership are crucial for creating a positive work environment and motivating employees. Flexibility is an important trait, as work is affected by seasons and weather conditions. An entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to take initiative are necessary to find new business opportunities and develop the business, while financial acumen helps keep the business profitable and sustainable over time.

Key facts about nursery owners, 5-9 employees

• Average salary: 29 300 SEK/month
• Gender salary difference: Women earn 92% of what men do
• Typical education level: High school education in natural resource management
• Work environment: Outdoor-based with seasonal variations
• Available jobs in the profession: 360

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a nursery owner with 5–9 employees can develop their business by expanding staff, diversifying the range, or specializing in new plant species and services. It is common to take on greater responsibilities within industry organizations or participate in development projects for sustainable cultivation. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that there are 360 available jobs in the horticulturist profession, but due to limited data, no precise assessment of future prospects for this specific specialization is made. Overall, demand is considered stable, especially for entrepreneurs who are innovative and adapt to new trends in the gardening industry.

Frequently asked questions about nursery owners, 5-9 employees

• What does a nursery owner, 5-9 employees, earn?
  - The average salary is 29 300 SEK per month, with the highest at 30,300 SEK and the lowest at 28,000 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 92% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a nursery owner?
  - The most common is a high school education in natural resource management, often supplemented with further training and practical experience.
• What is the working environment like for a nursery owner?
  - The environment is usually outdoor-based and varies greatly depending on the season.
• What are the future prospects in the profession?
  - There are 360 available jobs in the horticulturist profession, but no exact forecast for nursery owners specifically.
• What common benefits can be offered?
  - Employee discounts, flexible working hours, further education, and wellness contributions are often available.
• What is the hourly wage for a nursery owner, 5-9 employees?
  - The hourly wage for a temporary worker is 176 SEK.