The TRUTH About Growing Microgreens For Profit

Amazon link for the lights used on our commercial grow racks: amzn.to/2DYmONf
Hemp mats we used: amzn.to/37rdAnn
Trays: amzn.to/2F2AWmP
Seeds: amzn.to/2MIwmi6

[@raybeaulieu6187]

I've been a business owner for over 30 years. You expected too much and tried to be a big player overnight without regard for your limited investment. You also didn't do your market research. There's no such thing as easy money. BUT, you learned all the above and you will profit greatly in the future. Don't stop trying new things. Use the knowledge that you paid for. Best of luck to you and yours.

[@ryanwillett728]

Sound advice.

[@floodc88]

Thank you for pointing our the pros and cons. Most comments will only say what they did horribly wrong. The fact is, you lost money up front. But, you have experience now and the ability to be profitable in the future. Keep trying and like any smart businessman, keep a slush fund with 20-30% over budget as a backup.,

[@nspctor7729]

Sound advise

[@globalfoodproviders]

Though the $13k seems to be lost, they are branching into more of a supply capacity and that's good. AND I've learned through the years that if you take that $13k (loss) and use it going forward, it's really only the cost of the college lesson to make you successful in the next venture. That's IF IF IF you learned from it. So many just feel the pain, walk away and don't learn a new set of rules from the loss, and it becomes true loss going forward.

[@edmoney9806]

Great feedback Ray! You have to fail in order to learn to succeed. Learn your lessons and move on to something greater.

[@indigenousoutreachinternat4457]

Learn how to grow well, start small, use the space you already have, and have realistic expectations. All great advice.

[@RichardEby]

I appreciate your honesty. At least you didn't lose a ton of money! I got interested in microgreens 18 months ago. I first opened a second business...an organic juice bar. I did too much too soon! I loved the whole concept...signed a three year lease, spent a lot on a buildout, equipment, etc. and cut back my primary occupation (Podiatrist-foot doctor) as I was/am burned out on it. I had similar problems, but I LOST money.big time. We had a BAD location, no foot traffic, a few great core customers who loved our product, but just not enough. I still saw patients 2 days per week, but had to hire 3 or 4 part timers for the juicebar. My cpa kept telling me to quit, as I could make much more in my practice. After 18 months, I closed it, sold everything (almost everything) and went back to podiatry full time. In 35 years, I always made money as a doctor. In 2017 and 2018, I lost a lot of money..still had a lease, which someone finally took over last month. Financially, I am better. But I was very passionate about the juice business, it's health benefits, etc. Unfortunately, I can't do that in my house. You could do the microgreens on a small scale at home. I still have all my microgreens stuff...never used...trying to decide whether to sell or do it from my home or office. You ARE to be commended....you at least made a little money, learned some valuable lessons, and have a job to return to, which you like. I have lost a fair number of my patients since we were only two days per week for 18 months. Now we are doing five days per week, but have a lot of free time. Would I do the juice bar if I had it to do all over again? Not sure. I certainly would not have picked the spot I did or signed a three year lease. I would have been sure to have someone take over my practice first also. Best of luck, whatever you do in the future. I still have an entrepreneurial spirit, and encourage it in others!

[@BushJumping]

wow thanks for sharing!

[@james3374]

Thanks for the candidness and honesty! KZbin always attracts a lot of negative, ignorant comments. You shared your learning experience with us so we can benefit from it also.

[@JohnJohnson-hl4fv]

I admire you guys. Most people don't even try and go their graves wondering what would have happened if they had tried. It's better to have failed at everything than to never try at all. They say the path to success is paved with failures.

[@Shane7492]

I learned this lesson during my first business. It's usually better to keep a day job and start small and part time with your business to get through the initial learning curve and learn good marketing skills. Then if it grows enough and becomes profitable enough, you can start to transition to it full time. Going all in full time at the beginning is very difficult unless you already have the experience.

[@annexgroup6878]

Well Said

[@jimweights8908]

Cheaper than an MBA and probably learned more 👍

[@gmoney5660]

Thank you for your honesty, it is hard work, and not a get rich fantasy. Any type of plant can break you if something goes wrong! Thanks for not selling this as a millionaire business! It is work, and it is not forgiving! Good luck!

[@jeffdawes5622]

“A salary is just the drug they give you when they want you to give up on your dreams”- Kevin O’Leary

[@Aloewells]

But the drug is more than enough and happy for most hoomans

[@CoreysCave]

Selling is by far the hardest part. Your market really is key in this business. I grow as a hobby, I spend about 3 - 5 hours a week on it and bring in an extra $150 - $200 a week. I am transparent in all my videos that this is real work, nothing is free. Hopefully things improve for you.

[@CoreysCave]

K. Austin Hopper I don’t do markets because it’s time consuming. I sell directly to restaurants only. Don’t get me wrong man, I’m not trying to criticize you, just stating that there are ways to be very profitable but it really hinges on being able to sell them.

[@bigd7861]

If you are making that much in your job, then you were definitely way off the mark for these greens. As you said, not high enough returns for your liking. But, $15-20/hr as your own boss is AMAZING for most people in this country. Especially, since it's a brand new business that neither of you were anywhere near ready for. Business wise, this was a MAJOR success for you! You may not see it that way, but it is. You profited! Unfortunately, as you said, you burned yourself out. It's too bad that you are giving up on it after you got past most of the difficult stuff. You jumped in too hard and too fast. So, my point of advice: Next time, start a small business SLOWLY with something that you already know about. It will make a world of difference! Hope the rest of your future adventures go well! Remember, learning is growing!

[@jackiephillips9461]

@@Hoppervision So I had a question. Did you guys write out a business plan? I appreciate the video as well as I am planning this out before jumping in.

[@altha-rf1et]

Even 150 to 200 a week is good part time income for 5 hours a week working at home, no boss standing over you.

[@altha-rf1et]

cut your expenses, 1600 is what I make from SSDI and State Pension if It covers all my expenses got a paid for house, just monthly bills and food, I would love to make an extra 1600

[@C3Voyage]

Thanks for sharing your truth! Most would just quit and not say anything and this could really help some. I hope your kits take off. All the best to you guys. I don't see a description with your site info.

[@Cymru1987]

He overcharges for a kit that looks as if it costs maybe $25 bucks in parts from home depot, then re-sells for $99. lol.

[@edp3307]

Thank you for sharing your personal experience. Forget all the criticism and negative feedback. Not only did you learn from your experience but by posting this video you are helping others not make the same mistakes.

[@user-wv3ee2ec4v]

I started a microgreens business about a year ago. But I started at my house; I started at Farmers Markets and am still mastering only that sector (I'll only sell to a restaurant if they come to me and don't mind microgreens in soil); I am a sole proprietor; I only harvest on site at the market and don't have to pack; and I sell high, 6 bucks an ounce. I feel like I'm doing everything the opposite way you are. Lol. Anyway, yeah, it's a grind. But I am grossing about two grand or more each month. It's barely keeping me afloat. But shoot, it's the first year for me, almost everything is a grind the first year (probably the first 5!). Anyway, just thought I would comment. Sad to see you go, but best wishes on whatever you decide to do!

[@davesworld7961]

I05151942 Do you mind saying what city you are in and how many trays you average a week or month.

[@bigd7861]

If you are grossing $2k a month off of these and it's barely keeping you afloat, I think you are definitely doing something a little off. Everything for the farming is very inexpensive, like $200 or less for the full setup seen in the video. Most of this, after full setup, should only take maybe 3-5 hours of work a week, from seed to harvest, including plant maintenance. Sales time always depends on your market and the seller.

[@user-wv3ee2ec4v]

Big D I feel you're right. Margins are excellent. What I meant, though, is that 2 grand (minus business expenses) is barely enough to make a living here in California. So for the moment, I have a par time job. But you're right, running a microgreens business doesn't require huge expenses! So margins should be good.

[@bigd7861]

I05151942 Location. Location. Location!!! Since you're in Cali, if sales go downhill, you can always switch over to growing pot! 🤣

[@user-wv3ee2ec4v]

@@bigd7861 Can't say I haven't thought about it. Lol

[@keithwillenson8314]

Those people who said that there was not enough research done are absolutely right. First, the lights. I count 24 lights, plus maybe another 8 that are not lit. These are really nice, expensive lights that are great IF YOU ARE GROWING TOMATOES.. Microgreens require minimal light after they have sprouted and are harvested before their light needs increase. Cheap fluorescent lights work just fine if you are starting out. Maybe you could spring for some T5 bulbs just for extra power, however T8 LED lights are way overkill for microgreens. Lowes sells a T8 flourescent for $18 instead of $76 for the light in the link. 24 * 18 = $432 vs 24 * 76 = $1, 824. Fluorescent bulbs don't last as long as LEDs but you can consider spending the money from your profits the third or fourth year to buy the LEDs. Second I see three, maybe four levels in use. The metal racks are nice, but you can get four level plastic shelves for much much less. Lastly, they are paying $700 in rent each month for the space (plus travel time). How much extra in apartment rent would it have cost to get an extra bedroom? I'm guessing less than $700 and this while setup could clearly fit in a bedroom.

[@biolounge7329]

"I heard somewhere I could make money with this kind of farming..." I heard nothing else. Truth is : You need to be a business man in your head and a gardner in your heart. Miss one of those and you will not succeed !

[@xjustinplaguex8603]

Well said. If you don't like working your ass off and you aren't constantly coming up with new ideas and seeking new clients, you will fail at this. Watching this bro-douche fail at something so simple because he had money signs in mind rather than a love of the craft is hilarious.

[@tolotonga69]

Well said buddy !! I grew up around garden an everything that's got to do with plants cause my mother loved it lol so with me I love plants flowers my heart loves plants an my mind is fully on how to make an income.

[@annettecuke7523]

People go into business to make a living. I don’t see anything wrong with that. It was only after he pursued the business did he learn that it wasn’t with it.

[@yohananeliyah]

@@annettecuke7523 for him 😉

[@splitpierre]

couldn't say it better.

[@lukegibbons1925]

Sad to see a fellow micros seller move on to something else, but glad that you realized it for yourself early on versus going further into burnout. I have my own microgreens business in northern VA and it sure is hard work ( i also I have a full time job on top of that) but it’s a huge passion for me and I really enjoy it. From watching your video, obviously there were some things that you and your partner got carried away with, but that’s life dude. Live and learn.. mad respect on you guys going out and trying it out though. It’s not easy to follow through with even the initial setup. Hope you do well on your new project! Stay encouraged and keep learning. Many mentors brings much success

[@pruthviyannam8523]

Hello Luke, Can I know more about your microgreens business ? I live in Northern VA too

[@bagdaddy1744]

Luke Gibbons what’s up bro I’m staring in NOVA too man text me 571 457 1257

[@jeffroberts1649]

A very valuable vid, I commend you for your humble transparency. A lot portray it as an easy way to get rich, growing up on a family farm many years ago taught me there is much more involved than one could ever imagine. Best wishes to you both, all is not lost, the experience will travel many miles with you in the future.

[@jessielees]

guy fails at micro greens business, decides to sell micro greens grow kits instead.... how peculiar ... ... i cant believe you guys spent all that money starting up and renting a space and all the rest... this is not how you start a micro greens business. this business is to be started at home with low/zero overhead and grown and perfected from there, only taking on additional operating costs when absolutely necessary AFTER you've been successful and stable, and have exceeded the capacity of what you can produce at home and wish to keep growing and expanding... dont get me wrong, great that you wanted to do this and did it and put yourselves out there but wow what a huge risk of financial loss.... still though, the fact that you guys made any money at all after all those expenses is quite impressive and shows that you have what it takes to be successful in business.. this was just the wrong business for you given the circumstances of not being able to grow at home, etc.

[@ryanwillett728]

Good video. Reading your bio's on your website, you both are used to a fast pace and never failing. you strive for excellence which is admirable. If you got into Micros simply to make easy money fast, it may not have been a good decision. There isn't really a need to bash you, or tell you all that you did wrong - I think you've figured most of that out already. But there are some excellent take aways in this. Before I go in to that - a bit about why any comment I make is relevant. I'm a grower. I opened "officially" a year ago, and was slinging under the table for a year before that. I have a full time job 40 hours a week at a desk. While in college I did a feasibility study as a project on opening a hydroponic green house. In that study I developed a plan that made it work. But it was going to take time, patience, and diligence. Micros weren't even on my radar yet when I did that study, but in doing the study, the same "rules" applied to micros to make it successful. How I am doing/did it. 1) I live in my grow space. Divorce blessed me with a house that was too big. I rent two rooms out upstairs and converted the two offices downstairs into grow rooms. 2) I started one step at a time. Literally. 10 trays, some lights one shelf. Managed to get one client. Then two, then five. Then a farmers market. I grew as demand grew. Not the other way around. 3) Social media is largely responsible for a lot of my growth in business. 4) Feasibility study showed it would take me 3-5 years of PT work before I would be making enough to be self employed. How do I bridge the gap between when I make enough for me to live on and now? I have a helper that is retired and just likes to grow. So she helps with a lot of the smaller tasks in the process. 5) Problems you had growing can easily be solved. Air movement and humidity control can't be stressed enough. 6) You needed to "Play" with this on the side before trying live on it. Learning how long it takes any one micro to grow is paramount in your scheduling. Minimize repeating tasks day in and day out. Meaning two plant days a week. One harvest day a week, one delivery day a week. Find a rhythm, and keep it. Once you have a reference list on how long something takes, you back date from when you need delivery done. 7) When starting out, you ONLY grow to order. Keeping stuff in the tray "just in case" makes you a vegetarian fast and wastes too much of your resources. Last thing I'll say is you have to believe in what you are doing. I started in the beginning as a way to learn how to provide myself better nutrition at a lower cost. I learned quickly through sharing my excess that there could be a niche for this. You have to have a passion for growing to make it work both for you and the plants. If you really want to do it, take stock of your lessons learned, redesign your plan with the knowledge you have now, and go to it. But going balls out in this industry doesn't fly. Not for long.

[@sandrabyrd5765]

Wow, I really needed that , 4-5 yr from part to full time part of your business plan. As a past Plant Nursery Mgr, Vendor (All over LA, outlying areas & Ventura + lending expertise/physical laborfor 1, the 1st season of an organic

[@sandrabyrd5765]

Pushed the wrong button. Point is that I was hoping this part time to full time endeavor would only take 3 years. I moved back to New Mexico as a support for an elderly mom. Crime rate>Outrageous, Water Resources Future>Non-existent. Can this business be moved w/o such a long business establishment curve? I've got a twenty something don who can grow but not sell. Would love to & be grateful to hear back. Even a 1 word answer. My son has high functioning autism & is great with calculations, schedules, rhythms, etc. He'd need a selling partner unless potential clients are all women who love great looking guys, even if they are "odd'.

[@ryanwillett728]

@@sandrabyrd5765 It’s been a long time since I wrote this! Since this posting I’ve written a book called “So you want to grow Microgreens”? (Amazon). To answer your question you can make it work. With a good e-store interface, some good social media marketing your son can develop a door delivery service for micros. Of course there are challenges like market saturation and population density but that’s all in consideration of any business.

[@cameltube-vk7el]

@@ryanwillett728 thanks for posting

[@michaelmona3527]

Mr. Hopper, Kudos for having the guts to jump into your own business. I have a business degree and have been a corporate officer as well owned two corporations. First, always work smart not hard. "Key is", you have to realize what you can do that does not burn you out, but allows you to make the money you need. A construction project manager job could bring a 6 figure income. Secondly, most businesses are under capitalized and will fail in the first 3 years. Third, partnerships seldom work for all of the reasons you mentioned. Like a comment below mentioned, start small and progress into it full-time with a business that you love, your words, "passion for". In closing, 16K is not that much money to take a chance at running a business. If you spent four years to get a business degree , that means something, you could burn a big 6 figure sum. Personally, I retired at 50 and grow heirloom tomatoes, peppers, onions, etc. and micro-greens for my vegetarian daughter and the families overall health. I do it cause I love it! I made money when I was your age by working smart, saving, investing, and not living above my means. Use that degree and change the world... garden when you want, play when you want... you can have it all. -Mike

[@jeffselano2300]

First off thank you for being a small business owner. Small businesses employ 70% of this country. Many don’t succeed. It’s ok. You are to be commended for just trying. Sounds like there were some issues that you could have been better navigated and if you were to do it over you surely would make changes. Hindsight 20/20 right? I have owned many many businesses over the years. Some succeeded wildly and some failed wildly. So I get it. You have the entrepreneurial bug for sure. Dust yourself off and try again. Same business or different. People who at least try are the backbone of this country young man. I’m proud of you. Regarding the video thank you for being honest. This is the only video on the net I have seen that is telling the truth.

[@belindaarnett]

I’ve seen so many negative comments on here. The internet really brings out the worse in people. If these folks were to sit down face to face with you, im sử they wouldn’t be so harsh. I’m looking into starting a microgreens business as well so I’ve been scouring the internet to learn all I can about the pros and the cons. I appreciate you sharing your experience. Even though it was negative for you, people like me who are going into it are learning from your experience. Thanks for posting! And don’t let the negative folks get to you. Negativity only breeds more negativity. I’m glad the microgreens kits are working out for you! Chin up! ;)

[@tobey75231]

@Smattless I don't see the 70% number, but data would tend to support what Jeff says: sbecouncil.org/about-us/facts-and-data/

[@williamnichols6253]

You did a really good thing sharing this. I'm a commercial grower, and all over the internet I see people putting real risk into a picture of "microgreens for profit" that is sold to them by people who don't make their money selling microgreens... They make their money selling e books and online courses. Also, good look on the lights, I'm going to get me some. ... Actually, let me know if you're selling yours. Good luck.

[@tajuddinkhan3122]

Bravo At least someone talks about the other side of the story More people should share such story.

[@neilcrook861]

So true and bravo for coming out and exploding some of the myths around making money on micro-greens. I tried this last summer in Warsaw Poland where micro-greens are a very new concept. Stepped back to lick my wounds. I'll still grow but I'll do it on a non-commercial nature until I've got the experience as a grower to deliver consistency. Once again thanks for a real world video.

[@clarencewolfe8062]

Thanks for your personal honesty. I'm 68 on Soc. Sec. and just ordered and waiting for my starter kit from True Leaf. I have a small room and other room to grow. Looking to use them myself as well as sell. Watched at least 20 to 30 videos. Learned a ton from many of them and some with multi million dollar ideas. My over all opinion is that of Zig Ziglar. Businesses don't fail, people fail. Sometimes we have to look at our direction and goals. You need a road map of where your going. We certainly wouldn't take off for the west coast from the east coast without a planned route. We would just wonder till we get there. He also has a well pump that he keeps pumping till the water rises. Keep Pumping. I have started many businesses which succeeded and others that were not my cup of tea. It was my fault they didn't make it. I quit. I intend to think outside of the box. Find another knitch for micros. Start with the basics and find my way. Thanks again for sharing. Good Luck

[@jutdujette4353]

I was introduced to Zig Ziglar shortly after finishing school. Changed my perspective on life. Are you still growing? If so, how has it been for you?

[@GHOSTLOVE-nj4gx]

He makes a good point. Make sure you love what you do then this does not happen. He did it for the cash not the plants and made no cash. Do it for the plants , don’t quit when your business doesn’t boast off in the first year, actually grind and the money will come. That’s me plan.

[@GHOSTLOVE-nj4gx]

K. Austin Hopper yes, that’s good buddy glad to hear. We all need to take shots and see what comes of it. As to making 2000$ a month off of it, so many variables I will not comment on that. As to feeling you needed to announce your transition turning into more profits And your emphasis on paper money one could say a lot. Then again I don’t drink or get waisted so what do I know.

[@GHOSTLOVE-nj4gx]

K. Austin Hopper it was very transparent which is why I commented with my comment. Which you obviously have a disagreement with so why don’t you state exactly what it is. My point was I love growing plants as do others. Every business has a slow period especially in the beginning unless your already ahead of the ball on networking. Point being if you loved what you where doing the love for it would have been able to get you through that slow period until you where able to tip.

[@GHOSTLOVE-nj4gx]

K. Austin Hopper you actually agreed with me in your first comment so I’m going with i was talking to a drunk guy.

[@carsonturcotte9657]

I spent 2000$ total and that's with 4 months worth of seed. I am making 600 net per month out of my apartment. I sell 8 trays/week. Mostly Lemon basil and Red shiso. 35$ per 200g to 4 restaurants and a few people. Start very small and expect to work for 1$ per hour for 4-6 months. Because, if you're like me, you'll make every error possible haha. I have a huge market and no competition so it's awesome and I love what I'm doing. The best is to start cheap cheap cheap. You'll learn more and you'll learn to squeeze every possible way possible..can-do attitude.

[@DonnyGreens]

Crushing it! This is what happened with my microgreens business: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGfFm4OOqrafb7c

[@aradebrun3227]

Hey, just wanted to say thank you for sharing your experiences with this business. It's important to learn from each others' successes and failures, as this is the only way to innovate. Best of luck with selling your kits online! The more people that can feed themselves, the better :)

[@tjjackson3104]

Always good to finally see videos that are honest instead of trying to "sell" the video or lifestyle

[@sarlaz3407]

These are the videos people learn the most from. Thank you for sharing. All the best in your future endeavors!

[@JM-gs5jn]

I have a microgreen set-up at home. I can 15 trays under lights at a time. I started this as a hobby and a way to eat healthier for me and my family. There is NO WAY I would make it a business. Microgreens need micro-managing! I spend a lot of hours a week just as a hobby. Kudos for taking the leap....more Kudos for the change in direction!

[@jasonhalbert8279]

Thanks for the advise ... but if i may chime in here . That building is massive for a startup for microgreens all these guys i see start on 1-2 racks then scal the rent is eating into a ton of gross revenues. Scale down get a small space dont give up... get ur jobs back and start part time.

[@danielmcturk3961]

@seekortry certainly need to research your market. Higher end restaurants and resorts are my bread and butter. I know a few growers who exclusively deal with subscription boxes. Ultimately I wouldn't invest a ton of money. Great for unused space and to supplement other sales. Sadly chef are growing cautious after seeing sooo many people trying to get rich quick and failing.

[@dingfeldersmurfalot4560]

He said, though, that his region is too small to expand his market much. So even if he achieves perfect success, the money is just not there. He said he would recommend a market 3 or 4 times the size of the place he lives in. That said ... he could certainly move. Although it might take some time to find a place to live and a place to house his business that is not too expensive.

[@incemarketers8168]

Daniel McTurk what’s the best way to conduct research for this market and how does one find high end locations needing micros without wasting time.

[@danielmcturk3961]

@@incemarketers8168 Start by looking at review sites. Many of them include a rating for cost. You want to focus on places that have a higher cost per plate. Micro greens aren't cheap. Places that charge more tend to shell out for good ingredients. There really isn't an efficient way of doing this. Pounding the pavement with sample boxes is really the best imho. Chef's are more likely to respond when they can put a face to the supplier. Take the time to form a relationship with your clients and they will be a wealth of information about who may be interested in your product.

[@dingfeldersmurfalot4560]

@@danielmcturk3961 How professional does your packaging have to be to have you and your product be worth the chef's time to him or her? I don't want to invest in fancy packaging immediately if I don't have to. IF.

[@jamesl.223]

LOL I had to laugh "when you cant even take a week off to go to greece, that kind of sucks" when I started my company (not microgreens) i spent 3 years working every day 12 hours a day, and yeah it did suck. I remember thinking that when I retired at 42 and moved to OC in California driving a luxury car and living what most would think is a "dream" lifestyle. Long story short if you think that giving up some weekends off for a few years is too big of a commitment, than I have one solid piece of advice; enjoy the hell out of working for someone else, because you will be doing it forever. Not being a dick, just being straight up and honest. DO NOT let this video turn you away from your dream business. EVERY business gets to be a grind for awhile, stick it out, it is THOSE people that truly succeed.

[@patricksquires77]

Thank you for this honest transparent video. Below is not for the OP’s-it is for comment section. I do 100% believe this microgreen business should have stopped when they decided to stop. Sounds like they did a re-eval of how much more market was possible and it was not enough to perform the way they needed it to. This was a great journey shared and its appreciated. I had a business and journey was similar. This is every entrepreneur’s 1st-5th business story below. These are the 6 stages. 1. Uninformed Optimism 2. Informed Pessimism 3. Crisis of Meaning 4. Crash & Burn 5. Informed Optimism 6. Achievement.

[@Hoppervision]

💯

[@ziggypop123]

I have owned 4 businesses, 2 successful and 2 failures. Your telling the story of my first business except the partnership. It is tough and brutal sometimes and knowing when to walk away is very wise. I think you will be successful someday, the lessons you learned sounded right. Keep pounding away.

[@Hoppervision]

Thanks! What were the differentiating factors between businesses that worked and businesses that didn't?

[@FOR8YESHUA]

K. Austin Hopper What I got is 1.) that you could have started small out of your kitchen without the overhead expense and start part time, & 2.) then automate, 3.) then hire others to help out so you can get time off.

[@V2k2010]

I heard all of the reasons why you shouldn't make the business work. I didn't hear anything about the benefits of having your own business. Part of owning and succeeding in your own business is overcoming problems, yet you couldn't even figure out a way to get the plants to water themselves with a pump, timer and other equipment that could basically automate 90% of your entire business. As with anyone else, i don't intend to sound harsh but the hard cold truth is that some people at different times in their lives are not cut out for owning their own business. It is what it is. And i wish you good luck in whatever else you do decide to do next!

[@flyboylifestyle5339]

Agreed. Work for someone for 20ph or be ur own boss for same money.

[@ryanwillett728]

Automating watering on micros isn't as easy as you think until you are doing full racks of the same type of plant that is all on the same growth stage. For example, basil only needs water every other day, and sun flowers daily. So unless you have multiple pumps, on multiple timers and are watering full racks/shelves of the same product in the same growth stage, it doesn't quite work that way. It's more functional to have a large flat tank that you can fill will water and set trays into as needed to bottom water then refill the large tank as needed. Automated watering isn't always hte best answer for small to midlevel growers.

[@flyboylifestyle5339]

NTF (nutrient film technique) but just use ph balanced water.

[@ryanwillett728]

@@flyboylifestyle5339 NFT isn't for micros unless you are doing shoots and selling root on. It's more of a "fodder system" I run an NFT greenhouse, for lettuce, basil, mint, spinach, kale, and arugula. I've got some experience in it.

[@samsun01]

Most valuable information is in the comments, the advice given. I used x2 speed to watch this video because the dude was talking way too slowly.

[@con-can571]

thank you for sharing this. Good luck to you in whatever you do.

[@auracollins9972]

Thank you for your honesty. Do not give up in your goals even if is not microgreen never stop trying. Good luck friend!! This is the best teaching you can get, real life.

[@K3Flyguy]

Poor business model scaled up into mega mess. Im not criticizing you, it seems like you may have went too far, too fast? Or not, but it sounds like you were successful at everything except making the amount of money you needed to feel well compensated? You got almost all of it right! I do micros 16 trays at a time, I get $25 a pound for em. I sell every 2 weeks I make close to $400 a month doing almost no work except a little watering and cutting maybe 3 hours a month. Not a get rich quick job , but I have made some great friends, we all eat better, I have extra cash in my pocket and I can upscale at anytime if needed. I love everything about micros, will always grow em! Hope your next challenge works out better!

[@M3A7]

+K. Austin Hopper Once again, not listening to anyone, acting like you know something that you obviously don't. Then talking shit to people who are trying to educate you.... Working for someone else is probably going to be a lot better for you.

[@rathegod4971]

@@M3A7 you tell em.

[@incemarketers8168]

K. Austin Hopper website is down??

[@alrachid2]

Thanks for your honesty! Too many people on KZbin trying to sell you the get rich quick scheme to appeal to you and get you to subscribe. I think what really matters is that you took a chance. You did some math, you and your buddy thought it might work and you took a stab. I have had many ventures like this so far, although I dont spend as much as you guys did for my "test" business ideas. One thing I have learned is that no one succeeds by giving up. If it was your passion and you loved doing it I'd say keep going until you figure it out. If it was just an attempt to make money then keep er moving and I am sure you will do great. Every entrepreneurs journey is different, its a beautiful thing.

[@lonefriar4700]

They had the right idea, but way ahead of its time. Microgreens are seeing substantial popularity now.

[@Hoppervision]

We were in the wrong town.

[@Deborah1111able]

Well shoot! Food for thought. A couple things that went through my mind.....If you really wanted to hold on to it I would suggest renting a home with a garage and buying out your partner. Then hire a part-time employee. (Perhaps much cheaper than a partner). The employee would make minimum and do all the farm part of the work and you do the marketing and business part of it.

[@lavendergal2508]

Deborah Butler you are right on target- live in this space!! Being business owner is a 24 seven

[@tolotonga69]

You got to love the stuff your doing money is just something you get for doing what you love

[@helenelegare3391]

You are fantastic !! I started a small one in my basement with a lot of space and no big cost watching your videos and others. It was Just for our healt for my hustband and I. And even at our age, I find that is a lot of time and work. You are young and want to go out and on vacation !!! I get it !! This is like having 5 kids. But at the end of the day... Everybody could do a little grown just at home for they own helth...

[@sarahlittlefarm5070]

Hey thank you for going over the details of your enterprise! It takes a lot of thought and effort to go through the nuts and bolts of your business, especially on video trying to communicate to anyone who might watch. I liked how thorough you have been and this video will definitely help me in planning for my own ideas. All the best to you!

[@faoladh5177]

Good on you man. Thanks for the timely heads up. It's a bit heartbreaking as you seem like a really nice guy. I hope your new venture takes off and good luck finishing your degree and in your new career. Live long and prosper Brother.

[@CacheWeston]

So Funny---> Best 5 Second intro I have seen in a long time. as you slide back and accidentally hit your grow rack. You almost broke character. So funny.

[@seanschriver1543]

Thank you for your honesty...we did the same thing with mushrooms but we are now starting to run some experiments to resolve our utility bill bleed out and saving some money to make our production prep more efficient. Its definitely heart breaking but kits are a good transition and another way is to diversify into several different areas...small micro greens, small greens, small fruiting plants, etc...we agree, working for pennies on the dollar sucks but we really can't expand much more, our market can't support it so we had to shut down and see what else, and how else, we could grow to make a combination full-time opportunity...

[@tobistribe]

nice honest vid man, takes some courage, thx for letting us know what the "bad stuff" in this is..

[@juliencaja6315]

Hi, thanks for sharing your experience. One thing I don't get: you say you sold 80-100 trays a week. Sounds a lot. How could this not be profitable ? How much did you sell them ? Thanks

[@cadeplaisance3169]

This was before covid, so it was before the huge boom in the microgreens market. Just 1 tray goes for $25 at wholesale price now in 2023. I'm counting at least 30 trays there which would equate to about $750 now. In 2018, most independent growers were selling each tray for about $5 to $10. I don't see any small fans that can be clamped onto the growing shelves to prevent mold. There are indoor farmer's markets during the winter months. Another thing I noticed was that you never mentioned making a website to supplement your local business.

[@shanleyaumiller2559]

I appreciate your honesty. With any small business, there is a huge learning curve and it's hard to admit to the struggle.

[@litestreamer]

Thanks for openly sharing your challenges and outcomes. It's not a failure if one realizes so many lessons from the experience. You went for it and you learned a lot. That's not a failure, it just was not right for you at this time, and some of these critics here don't see that, so what.

[@Slormer]

Don't know how I got here, but I'm glad I watched.

[@mckdi1377]

I greatly appreciate your honesty.

[@phillydeangelo2850]

It would be called work and starting a business from the ground up. Once you get to that level where you can take a weekend and go camping, you will know you’ve put the work in and deserve it. Don’t give up people. God bless your

[@Maag737]

Thanks for sharing. I really appreciate your story. I have run a part-time microgreens business over the last year. I called it quits a few weeks ago. I still believe that it is possible to accomplish, but I took a solid look at my life and direction I wanted to go financially and temporally. My life changed I realized that the amount of risk and constant attention was not conducive to the lifestyle I want to live. I did a lot of market research. I gained some exceptional clientelle. Always do your research and always ask for help. People are always a lot more interested in your endeavors than you think. If you don't try then you will never know. #lotslearned #lotsgained #thankyouuniverse #Iplaytoquinn

[@bigd7861]

Quinn Bailey How big is your setup and are you willing to sell it?

[@Maag737]

Hi Big D. My setup is 3 shelves (2*5level shelf, 1*4level shelf) with 4 lights for each level. I wasn't using all the shelves, so could increase capacity. Instead I focused on efficiencies in my growing cycles. I use T8 32watt 48 inch bulbs. With the setup I was able to grow 31 flats each 12day cycle. If you are interested I would be happy to sell. Lets talk.

[@bigd7861]

Quinn Bailey Price and location?

[@Maag737]

Hi Big D, apologies for delayed response. I was in the Hospital for a bit. I live in Kelowna, BC Canada. Mail me if still interested in price. [e-mail]

[@bigd7861]

Quinn Bailey Hope you're all better! I'm going to pass on your setup. I'm in the southern US, so shipping it would cost WAY too much. I've done some pricing, and it's only going to cost -$200 for absolutely everything to get me started. Plenty fine for me to get experience growing for myself before ramping it up a bit at a time. Thank you very much anyway!

[@uscjake868]

Thanks for being so humble and sharing this. I think a lot of people are idealistic and love the idea of making money with small scale farming. You pose an excellent point about scaling a business. Every market has a plateau. You can only sell so much lettuce or microgreens or whatever product you are selling. If you can't sustain daily operations without scaling higher, then it isn't feasible. Most businesses start with debt, but starting with two people who need a normal salary on top of debt was the nail in your coffin. It seeps like this business is best suited for someone who is receiving a pension or stable investment income that can do this business for side cash and scale at their pace and leisure. It is a lot of pressure to do this full time and generate enough profit to pay your own bills, let alone another persons bills.

[@ctwndeucedeuce9329]

Hey thank you fir sharing your story and being refreshingly honest brotha. Your insight, suggestions and divulgence of mistake is very valuable to all of us out here considering a go at mic-farm’g Go tear it up in the construction industry Peace

[@DailyRandomness]

I started my micro greens with my spare bedroom and 750$ . I did so much research even before i ordered my seeds. Its about systems in place is all . Never go too big and write everything down for adjustments if needed .

[@dieantwoordrare281]

i like your budget can i ask what you could afford for that amount? how could you get all the trays and racks and seeds for that amount? kind regards

[@davesworld7961]

I think location makes a big difference. City Hydro said their trays sell for about $100 in New York. Other cities $60 or $30.

[@litestreamer]

They don't sell their trays in NY. They ONLY sell in their zipcode.

[@davesworld7961]

litestreamer They were referring to some people who had bought their system and are selling identical products.

[@bigd7861]

I think they said their price range was $20-45/flat, depending on what plants, who paid, and when.

[@DarinHibbs1]

Good insights...scale up slowly...make sure you WANT a business and not just a job.

[@twerkinalisha7346]

Can you elaborate more on what kind of liceanses/business permits you needed?

[@aquahydroman7623]

Hard work is rewarded in the long run.

[@oldcorn937]

Great advice for anyone wanting to start any kind of business. I like seeing the adaptation though. Started a business, made mistakes, got burnt out and had to close up shop. Then transitioning to use your knowledge and experience to pioneer a new business. Never losing your entrepreneurial drive along the way. Mad respect 💯💯💪💪

[@KevinBieg]

Thanks for this, I know a friend who is about to dive head first into this and have a partner also. I'm starting with a few small trays and just doing it for a hobby to start off. Don't see many videos about the bad side of starting something like this

[@teeheee2]

The life of a farmer is always on the farm, or running product. These people are the true work horses of our world. When you get it right though, it's good.

[@tomnugent2148]

Thank you,I usually go overboard on things and find some projects I could have bought completed for less money and headache,I applaud you for being so honest.I was thinking of going "ALL IN" I might start off with Baby Steps now.Nobody dreams small.Some things look great on charts and clipboards,but at the end of the day you have to honest with yourself if it is worth it.The better you do the more work you make for yourself,and you end up with no down time,like playing nursemaid, can't just take off and go away, you end up a slave to it.Plus you have commitments and responsibly to business and people are depending on. you,Thanks Again.

[@evone56]

Thank you for sharing your experience. I am looking into doing something like this but I own my own land . Sounds like a lot of work. I am going to take your well earned advice and start small. I think once you learn how they grow it starts to get easier. Partnerships are hard when you both have to have jobs other than growing. Don't give up just go smaller like you said and start again. I used to live in Yakima, when I was 5 lol, I loved it there. We had a grape vineyard right next door yummmm:) Good luck to you both. Don't let this stop you from doing something else new. We need your kind of can do attitude. Thank you again for telling your truth:)

[@andreiconstantin3137]

Thank you for your sincerity and also your advices. Is the first video showing the other side of the microgreens' story.

[@williamcanepa1388]

Growing micro greens is tough prob, but not when you coming from construction. Can't wait to start this.

[@Hoppervision]

I'm in construction now

[@cisco5400]

Thank you for your knowledge, you had knowledge and that will lead to success. Most people do not even try to get knowledge so they never learn new things that will make them succeed with other things.

[@treystills]

Great post! Thank you for sharing! Sorry your business didn't work out but you took a shot. Shooters gotta shoot. Next adventure may not be "successful" either but you learn from each experience until you create that business that is successful for you. Ton of MBA and Botanist comments here. You really struck a nerve. Its better to have attention than not be memorable. Best!

[@manusood381]

Great to get your honest opinions and taking the time to share your experience. Very brave of you. All the best

[@demian7567]

Thanks for this video, I wish more people shared their experiences like this.

[@Cheesyenchilady]

My husband and I have been thinking about microgreens, but we are moving 20 min away from a beautiful national park and we plan to spend plenty of time on the lake and the trails and... yeah maybe we will just start growing a few trays and see what’s up lol (we will be bout 40 min away from a large Texas city)

[@PM-qu5gh]

Always many variables to deal with in farming and a lot of potential heartbreaks. You went for it and you grew from it.

[@jnicolettebailey]

Thank you for a very honest video. Wishing you the best with future ventures

[@mitchellwintercat]

Wow, this was sooooo helpful. A big thank you and kudos.

[@auntcatziegler3791]

subscription sales direct to individuals is the 'new' way

[@Nameschino]

Im thinking of growing my own microgreens and starting a business with my girlfriend i was thinking that subscriptions is how i wanted to sell and im glad to hear that people are interested in that route.

[@Hoppervision]

Yeah, I think cutting my grow mats into quarters, then selling them without harvesting would have worked better. Subscription makes sense if all your customers are in a small area.

[@flatearthcrypto6991]

micro greens in 50 ft tunnels outside is way more profitable. no lights. no fans or humidifier etc. lol. indoors is hard

[@Autonomousgardener]

The first piece of advice is great advice. Learn to grow before you sell. Love what you produce.

[@brianhebert347]

Thank you. I hope things get better for you guys.

[@dragonblade7273]

first off you are spending 1000$ on space to grow .... why? that is more than a lot of peoples rent second mold?? and germ problems probably due to temp and humidity not a problem if you have fans a dehumidifier and a humidifier (try vermiculite to fix germination problems) as far as your turn around most variety's only need half there grow time under the lights so you can have trays stacked with seeds germinating on the side and turn the whole rack every 3-4 days id say there was a lack of planning before you took to action .....

[@guillermoramirez688]

fluffy chainsaw i agree.

[@ianholland212]

Bro like no shit you have to read a book or something

[@tadijadukic9899]

Mold develops where are conditions for that, if you remove conditions where mold grows, you will never have mold!

[@M3A7]

+K. Austin Hopper Jesus, you have the most loser mindset of any entrepreneur I've every seen. Suck it up and admit you fucked up hard. Maybe you will actually be successful one day if you can admit to yourself that you failed. A failure in preparation, is only preparation for failure.

[@UseYourManners123]

Vinson Palmer why turn the rack? Isn’t it in a controlled environment with grow lights? What does turning the rack do? Ty

[@jordongray818]

you spent 20 minutes telling the youtube world why they shouldnt start growing microgreens for profit, then try to pitch a kit to grow microgreens at the end of it. lol

[@albertalbert7958]

Buying a electric kitchen is not the same as opening a restaurant. Same as growing a couple of trays to eat has nothing to do with hustling in a farmer market. Video was very honest. It seems that u got hurt knowing your microgreen business dream sucks and you had to hurt them back. Either that or you are an idiot.

[@roven7730]

Albert Albert Why so rude at the end? Maybe try to stop spreading negativity

[@albertalbert7958]

@@roven7730 I'm not the one spreading negativity. I'm the one educating the poster who confuses opening a restaurant with buying a kitchen.

[@DonnyGreens]

@@Hoppervision He's laughing at your bogus business tactics. It called hard work dude. That's how you make it. Welcome to the real world! PS some of us hard-working REAL entrepreneurs are crushing it with our microgreens businesses. Try learning and pivoting so you can grow your business. Or maybe you would rather be surfing... #SelfAwareness

[@DonnyGreens]

@@Hoppervision You're so awesome! Go tell that story. Microgreens farming is a great business opportunity that more people should pursue. Looks like your site is down. Im guessing that's your "one-of-a-kind" product that people loved?

[@harmonioussolutions2848]

by far the best intro to a youtube video I have seen :-)

[@DeathValleyDazed]

Thanks for sharing your personal experience - much to learn from your detailed video.

[@jackiemilton2368]

Thanks for your honesty, I'm sorry it didn't work out for you. Most entrepreneurs have to fail a few times, that's part of the process. Good luck with what you do next.

[@forageforage3520]

It sounds like you both learned some very valuable lessons! Hopefully you wont give up, but will use what you've learned and experience to get creative.

[@cowboyyoga]

Great video and thanks for sharing, you shared some good points.

[@richardwalley2862]

I almost pooped myself when I heard that bug zapper

[@JG-mt3rp]

This is great content, thanks for keeping it real

[@chrisjewitt7666]

Thanks for your transparency with the micro greens business. Best of luck in your next endeavor!

[@bodean2000]

🙉 omg.... I had my ear buds in with volume on high to hear you when that fly hit that zapper and I thought my ear buds blew up. Wow that was loud.

[@dariuszxxx8383]

Hi great video! Would you be so kind and share how much usually you charge for 1kg of microgreens for restaurant and how much and how often they made orders. Some details about sales pleas! Best regards

[@whowawoo]

The rent alone eats into your income, so so many expenses.

[@GregVasquez777]

M kay your bug zapper scared me lol I was just looking at your flourescent lights and wondering if they were water proof and ZAP... lol i flinched a little. Good timing, got me ;) Great video btw thanks.

[@PaulThronson]

Great video. I would like to apologize for all of people who internalized your problems, which became fear and anxiety and then spewed their own inability to deal with their feelings back at you in often times rude and dishonest ways. I wish more people got online and were just honest. One thing I am sure about is that you will be more successful in life than nearly all of those haters unless they can turn around and be as honest with themselves as you are in this video.