Gardener
Gardeners grow and look after plants in parks, gardens and other green spaces.
Day-to-day tasks
As a gardener, you will:
- raise and look after plants from seeds or cuttings
- dig, plant and weed flower beds and borders
- tidy overgrown shrubs and trees and clear paths
- control pests that damage plants
- use equipment safely, like lawn mowers and hedge trimmers
- build items such as sheds, patios or fences
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- the ability to work well with your hands
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others
- customer service skills
- the ability to operate and control equipment
- the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
- physical skills like lifting, bending and reaching
- ambition and a desire to succeed and be self motivated
Industry Qualifications
You might find it helpful when looking for work if you have some practical experience, for instance from working in a garden centre.
You could also start as an assistant gardener with an organisation and work your way up.