Michigan direct-to-consumer compliance guide, 2026

Plants & Flowers

Selling nursery stock needs an annual MDARD license, with a smaller fee for the tiniest growers.

Licensed (Nursery License)

YesWhat's covered

  • Growers and dealers with a current nursery license
  • Dealers buying only from licensed Michigan growers who register for $35
  • Fruit and vegetable plants and seeds, exempt from sales tax at qualifying retailers
  • Nursery stock that passes MDARD inspection and quarantine rules

NoNeeds a different path

  • Selling nursery stock without a license
  • Invasive species on Michigan's prohibited list
  • Moving plants under a pest quarantine
  • Sales-tax exemption for ornamental plants or flower seeds

Three compliance steps

  1. A

    Apply for the nursery license

    Growers or sellers of nursery stock apply to MDARD annually. License fees are due on or before October 31.

  2. B

    Know your fee tier

    $100 for growers or dealers; $40 for under 1/4 acre or 200 sq ft of greenhouse; $35 registration for dealers who only buy from licensed Michigan growers.

  3. C

    Handle tax and species rules

    Fruit and vegetable plants and seeds are exempt at qualifying retailers, but ornamentals are taxable. Avoid prohibited invasive species.

Quick reference

ItemRuleRegulator
Nursery license$100 per yearMDARD (MCL 286.209)
Small grower$40 for under 1/4 acre or 200 sq ft greenhouseMDARD
Dealer registration$35 for dealers buying only from licensed Michigan growersMDARD
Due dateOctober 31 each yearMDARD
Edible plants and seedsExempt from sales tax at qualifying retailersMI Treasury
OrnamentalsTaxableMI Treasury

Frequently asked questions

Do cut flowers need a nursery license?

Not verified here; ask MDARD Plant Health.

What if I only resell plants?

You may register as a dealer for $35 if you buy only from licensed Michigan growers.

Are vegetable starts taxed?

Fruit and vegetable plants are exempt at qualifying retailers.

Printable checklist