How To Become A Gardener

Gardening is a varied job with many roles available within the overall title of ‘gardener’. Gardening is a popular hobby that numerous people enjoy and this is apparent by the increasing number of  television shows, magazines and garden centres around the UK. Statistics show that 87% of homes have a garden and if you include allotment space, which many people without a garden obtain, then the percentage will be considerably higher.

I have a medium sized garden but despite my best efforts, I am hopeless at maintaining it and unfortunately it is rather unkempt. However, I much prefer to describe it more as a wildlife sanctuary as I have a good selection of birds and mammals that thrive among the entangled shrubs and trees. Well, that is my excuse anyway! As well as not being able to tend to my garden due to lack of knowledge and extremely limited time, I also have little interest in gardening as I am more an inside person. I definitely do need the expertise of a gardener and it seems I am not alone as more statistics show that just over 40% of people with gardens in the UK actually enjoy gardening which leaves around 60% who do not.

You may not necessarily need formal qualifications to become a gardener although many colleges do ask for a minimum of two GCSE’s depending on the course and some other well regarded establishments offer numerous courses at different levels which are connected to gardening. You can gain recognised qualifications and certificates such as RHS qualifications, BTEC National Diplomas, HND, NVQ and City and Guilds which are an excellent foundation for a career in gardening. Just a small handful of available courses include Garden Design, Arboriculture, Horticulture, Landscaping and Environmental Studies, which shows what a diverse industry gardening is.

Instead of further education, you may consider an apprenticeship where you combine practical training in a job with qualified staff while you study for at least 20% of your working hours. Alternatively you could gain employment as an assistant gardener or work in a garden centre so you can gain experience and knowledge that way.

The Royal Horticultural Society also offers a fantastic range of courses which are available to be studied online or at an approved centre and are widely recognised and respected.

From basic gardening such as weeding and pruning to landscaping and maintaining huge grounds, there are many different roles and services that you may choose to specialise in. Garden maintenance, soft landscaping and hard landscaping incorporate many areas, for example, mowing and treating lawns, planting new trees, shrubs and hedges, soil management, laying paths and patios or creating a garden pond. You could work in a tiny urban garden, extensive and elaborate gardens of a huge stately home or work for a large company designing new projects - the choice is huge.

Once you gain confidence and experience, you could establish yourself in any area of gardening or work for yourself which would give you flexibility and the freedom to choose your work. Gardening can be physically demanding, often being outdoors and success will depend on your knowledge, skills and dedication as well as your reputation.

The work offers many positive aspects. Gardeners enjoy a strong connection with nature and the changing seasons whilst working in all weathers. Many gardeners find peace and satisfaction in their work which allows them to constantly strive for excellence. The work can reduce stress, improve mental health and offer a feeling of accomplishment and pride. It is a field where you will be continually learning and expanding your knowledge as there are always new plants to discover, techniques to master and challenges to overcome.