What does a gardener do?

Gardeners work all day long with plants. They grow them, arrange them, and care for flowers and trees. The role of a gardener can be incredibly diverse. It involves monitoring and maintaining the health of green spaces, watering and feeding plants, pruning trees, mowing lawns and weeding. A love of being outdoors is a must for gardeners. Apart from caring for gardens, gardeners may also provide advice to home owners on the design of their garden. This task overlaps with that of a landscaper and can represent a career evolution for gardeners with design and creativity skills.

Gardener skills and qualifications

Gardeners spend a lot of time outdoors and on their feet. A special love of green spaces makes this profession a true passion. Successful gardener candidates will need the following skills:

• Be agile with their hands
• Have the ability to operate and maintain machinery/equipment
• Have a sense of customer service
• Follow instructions and be able to work in a group
• Have strength, stamina and agility
• Have knowledge and understanding of the appropriate safety and security measures

Gardener experience requirements

In this field, having experience in gardening and in horticulture is valued by employers. Experience of using gardening tools and lawn maintenance equipment, such as mowers and trimmers, is a plus. Demonstrating that knowledge is just as valuable as displaying enthusiasm. Gardeners who have the appropriate experience have a wide range of career progression options available to them. They can become senior or head gardener but can also move into other work such as landscaping, greenkeeping (on a golf course) or arboriculture. Offering services directly to private customers is a possibility for gardeners who have chosen to set up their own business.

Gardener education and training requirements

College courses in gardening are available for those who have chosen this career path. These courses have different levels, including Level 1 Certificate in Horticulture Skills, Level 2 Diploma in Practical Horticultural Skills and Level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Horticulture. Having a Certificate of Competence that demonstrates the ability to carry out hazardous tasks using a chainsaw is often necessary for this role. Aside from following a college course curriculum, apprenticeships or even applying directly are possible entry routes.

Gardener salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a gardener is £9.10 per hour. This salary will vary depending on the expertise of the gardener and their level of experience. The job location and the employer will also have an impact on the salary.

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Gardener job description FAQs

Who can become a gardener?

A career as a gardener is suitable for anybody who enjoys working outdoors, in nature and with plants. Candidates who are green fingered will thrive at caring for plants and flowers. The job involves a wide range of tasks, meaning that no two days are alike.

What are the key considerations to contemplate when becoming a gardener?

Successful gardeners put a lot of effort into delivering a high quality of work. The output should meet or exceed the client’s expectations. Environmental and sustainability criteria should also be considered. Ongoing training and refresher courses are available to make sure that gardeners stay up to date with trends and regulations.

Who hires a gardener?

Gardeners can be hired by private home owners who need assistance with maintaining their green space. They can also work for privately held gardening companies or for local authorities, taking care of public parks and other community green spaces.

What industry does a gardener belong to?

Gardening is part of the horticultural industry. This industry ranges from research, climate change issues and sustainability, to plant production and management of open spaces. Most gardeners work in horticultural facilities.