Your plant nursery faces a unique set of challenges that can threaten your inventory and overall business health. From severe weather events like hailstorms and unexpected freezes to persistent risks such as equipment breakdown and theft, threats can be both frequent and unpredictable.
In an industry where your inventory is both valuable and perishable, the stakes are high. That’s why more nursery owners are prioritizing insurance coverage designed specifically for their operations. Proactively protecting your nursery isn’t simply good business sense—it’s essential for your long-term resilience and continuity.
What is nursery insurance?
Plant nursery insurance encompasses essential coverage options, such as general liability, commercial auto, and workers’ compensation.
It can also include commercial property coverage that helps protect nurseries if they experience damage to buildings, equipment, and stock—including trees, shrubs, flowers, and other container-grown materials. This coverage option typically addresses a wide range of risks that include:
Loss caused by weather events, fire, or theft
Damage to inventory from failed climate-controlled systems
Why is it important to have nursery insurance?
Without proper insurance, nurseries can face significant out-of-pocket costs in the event of a loss, including:
Lost revenue from damaged buildings or unsellable stock
Delays in order fulfillment, which can strain customer relationships
Cleanup, replanting, or restocking expenses
Nursery insurance doesn’t guarantee you won’t face losses—but it helps reduce the financial impact when something goes wrong.
What other types of coverage should nursery businesses consider?
A well-rounded nursery insurance policy can include several other key coverages tailored to your operation, such as:
Business interruption insurance
Helps cover income loss and ongoing expenses during recovery
Liability coverage
Helps protect against third-party injury or property claims
Commercial umbrella insurance
Adds an extra layer of protection for your business in the event of a catastrophic liability loss or a major judgment against you or your company
Because no two nurseries are alike, customizing your insurance policy is often the best approach. Tailored coverage accounts for your nursery’s unique plant types, growing methods, and infrastructure—helping ensure better overall protection.
How much does plant nursery insurance cost?
The cost of nursery insurance varies based on several factors, including:
Your nursery’s size and location
The value and types of plants you grow
Your existing protective infrastructure, like irrigation systems and greenhouses
Your claims history and risk profile
The coverages and deductible amounts you choose
The best way to get an accurate estimate is to request a customized quote based on your specific operation.
How to choose a qualified nursery insurance provider
Not every insurance provider understands the seasonal cycles and operational challenges of a nursery. To evaluate providers, ask:
Do they understand my business model and risks?
Do they offer proactive risk management support?
How quickly and effectively do they handle claims?
Working with an insurer who knows your industry can make all the difference when it comes to helping protect your inventory and ensuring fast, knowledgeable support after a loss occurs.
Why nursery businesses choose us for their business insurance
Hortica®, a brand of the Sentry Insurance Group, specializes in insurance for nurseries and other horticultural businesses. What sets us apart?
Dedicated risk management resources to help prevent losses before they happen
Experienced claims handlers who understand the unique needs of plant-focused operations
More than 135 years of experience serving horticultural businesses
We’re committed to helping you safeguard your nursery with tailored solutions and responsive support. We can help you build a coverage plan that fits your operation. Request your personalized quote today and take the next step toward helping secure your future.
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