Container garden farming : addressing barriers in urban agriculture through sustainable business
(Book - Regular Print)

Thesis,MBA,Green Mountain College,2018

While many people have shown an interest in fresher food, fresh food is not always readily available. In considering the various solutions to this issue, individuals may choose to explore indoor container gardening as a solution. There are many stores in the local geographic area which sell gardening supplies for both outdoor and indoor enthusiasts. The available options offer what is necessary to fulfill the consumer's gardening needs. Based upon observations of various local gardening stores, it seems to be that there is much overlap in regards to product offerings of seeds, live plants, nutrients and fertilizers, pest-eradication tools, compost, equipment, and other gardening supplies. Despite the appearance of oversaturation, the potential to fill a niche market for the inexperienced gardener exists. The purpose of this research is to consider the impact of Oberholtzer's barriers, as to be discussed, on consumers' interest and experience in indoor gardening, and to conduct a market feasibility study of a non-profit business model which collects donations of gently-used gardening supplies to re-sell to the public at a discounted cost.