As another growing season winds down, now’s the perfect time to reflect and plan ahead. Before the holidays kick in and the year slips away, take stock of your operation: not just what grew, but how your business grew.
A year-end audit doesn’t need to be complicated. A few hours of focused review can reveal where your operation thrived, where it struggled, and how to set yourself up for an even better spring.
Here are some tips.
Step 1: Review What Worked and What Didn’t
Start with a simple list. Go through your major areas of operation: propagation, production, retail sales, wholesale fulfillment, and distribution.
Ask yourself:
- Which crops performed best this year and why?
- Which products or varieties didn’t move as expected?
- Were there bottlenecks in workflow, staffing, or supply chains?
- Did your protection materials (row covers, ground cover, frost blankets, etc.) hold up as planned?
If you use DeWitt materials like woven ground cover, Seed Guard, or Insulate Frost Blankets, note their condition and performance. Did they save time, reduce losses, or help with quality? That’s valuable insight for next season’s ordering and inventory planning.
Step 2: Audit Your Inventory
Now’s the time to take a close look at what’s left in your yard or greenhouse:
- Which trees, shrubs, or perennials are overwintering?
- What stock can be carried over safely and what needs to move now?
- How are your supplies of pots, burlap rolls, weed barrier, and shade fabric?
Well-maintained stock is your foundation for spring success. Check for damage from frost, pests, or excessive moisture. Make sure overwintering structures are secure and properly ventilated.
Now’s the time to check with your distributor about any remaining early order discounts if you haven't placed your spring orders yet, or if you missed something on your original spring order.
Pro tip: Burlap and frost blankets aren’t just for emergencies; they’re insurance for next year’s revenue. Protect your inventory now, and you’ll sell healthy plants in March instead of discounting damaged ones in April.
Step 3: Evaluate Costs and Margins
Once your physical inventory is squared away, look at the numbers.
- Which crops brought the strongest margins?
- Did input costs (materials, fertilizer, shipping) eat into profitability?
- Where can you save through better planning or bulk purchasing?
If you bought DeWitt fabric, burlap, or frost protection mid-season, compare the cost savings and performance to previous years. Many growers find that higher-quality, longer-lasting materials reduce total spend over time.
Step 4: Set Goals for the New Year
With the season’s lessons fresh in mind, now’s the time to sketch next year’s goals. Keep them realistic and measurable:
- Add one new product line or crop type
- Upgrade greenhouse or irrigation infrastructure
- Reduce seasonal plant loss by a specific percentage
- Invest in sustainable materials that align with customer demand
If you’re planning to expand your retail presence or diversify your growing areas, DeWitt can help. From ground cover for layout planning to shade cloth for light management, having the right materials on hand sets you up for operational efficiency and consistent quality.
Step 5: Rest, Reflect, and Reset
Running a nursery or greenhouse is all about the people behind them. The end of the year is a time to recharge, recognize your team’s work, and start fresh with clear direction.
Take the wins, learn from the challenges, and build from there. When spring rolls around, you’ll be ready with a well-stocked, well-prepared operation that’s already a step ahead.
Bottom Line
A thoughtful year-end review is the most valuable investment you can make for your business. From evaluating your materials and stock to setting goals and tightening operations, every step ensures a smoother, more profitable year ahead.
DeWitt’s full range of nursery and greenhouse solutions—from burlap to ground covers—helps growers protect their investments and prepare for what’s next.