This booklet is intended to give a general idea of what is required to set up and manage a flower shop, to point out some of the problems and rewards, and to tell where to find more detailed information. First, an overview of the business is provided, telling the background required in education and experience as well as the amount of profit that can be expected. Advice is then given on the following topics: location of the business, buying an existing business, financing, and types of business ownership, especially as they are affected by taxes. The physical design of the shops is described, focusing on the areas of storefront, salesroom, workroom, office, and delivery area. Following a general review of equipment, refrigerators and lighting are treated in more detail. The purchase and care of flowers are delineated as well as the advisability of having a greenhouse in the store. Pointers are given on selling techniques and the effectiveness of advertising is considered. Money management, including budgets and financial statements, is emphasized, and determining the pricing of merchandise is explained. Also, the training and hiring of employees, particularly of sales help, is reviewed. Because of the importance of wire service orders in the flower business, a chapter is devoted to that topic. For more information, a list is provided of books, periodicals, associations, wire services, and government publications. (ELG)