Subscribe to contentHow to Find a Reliable Local Gardener
According to the 2001 census, more than 40,000 professional gardeners work in England and Wales. That number has undoubtedly risen in the 9 years since the census, making it reasonable to believe it might be easier to find a reliable gardener today than it was back then. As with any trade, finding a good gardener is simply a matter of knowing what to look for and putting in the time to do a thorough vetting.
Experience
Gardening is more than simply cutting the grass and pulling weeds from the flower beds. It takes years of experience to understand the nuances of various plants, trees, shrubs, and such. Ideally, someone with additional local experience is your best bet. Experienced gardeners will have worked a number of years as a labourer for another tradesman before striking out on his own.
Tools and Equipment
A professional gardener with a career attitude will have his own van, equipment, and tools. Someone who knocks on your door and offers to cut your grass if you supply the mower is not someone who's in it for the long term. He's not the reliable gardener you'll be able to work with for years. In addition, if he is injured or has an accident with your equipment, you could possibly be held liable.
Proper Identification
Unfortunately, gardening is an easy way for thieves to gain the trust of a target before stealing valuables from the house. Any gardener you choose should have properly identified vehicles, uniforms, and personal identification for all employees.
Proper Licenses and Insurance
All tradesmen are required to carry at least a minimal amount of liability coverage, so asking for proof is standard practice. But where gardening is concerned, additional licenses are issued for the use of pesticides, certain power equipment, and methods of waste disposal, among other things. A gardener who procures such licenses demonstrates he has been trained in the specific areas and conforms to regulations.
Trade Qualifications
Trade associations for gardeners will usually qualify their members in certain skill sets. To be qualified in a certain area, a gardener must take and pass a specialized course. Any qualifications he might have is further proof of his dedication to gardening.
Fee Structure
When it comes to gardening, cheaper is seldom better. Quality gardening is a time consuming trade which requires diligence and expensive man-hours. Discuss with gardeners their hourly or fixed rate, visit schedule, and seasonal modifications. Get multiple quotes, just as you would for any trade, and make sure the quotes are in writing.
Communication
Communication between gardener and consumer is key to a successful arrangement. When you first meet a contractor for a bid assessment, do your best to clearly describe what it is you are after. If you have trouble explaining yourself in a manner the contractor can understand, you're much more likely to have ongoing problems as long as you work together. Look for someone on the same “wave length”, so to speak. You'll both be happier.