How Many Types of Gardener Are There

I have put together a list of types of gardener and underneath given each job type a very rough, approximate score out of 10 for the amount of knowledge required (in no particular order.)

Residential/Home Visit Gardener

This is one of the most varied and interesting gardening jobs that also requires initiative.

One is required to know everything from weeding, soil composition, types of flowers to building small walls and best growing conditions for each plant. This list is endless. However, the customer is often a major source of information particularly regarding the plants they have already grown or are growing in their garden.

Sometimes a garden owner will not have a clue and leave everything to the gardener.

5-10/10

...........

Nursery Gardener/Plantsman

This job entails growing, caring for and propagating 100's of different types of plants.

A university education in horticulture may be required or learning on the job experience over many years may suffice.

10/10

..........

Estate Gardener

An estate gardener may be part of a team and may specialise in one area, such as lawn mowing. Another team member may be in charge of the allotment growing vegetables.

The head gardener will be expected to know everything and allocate responsibilities according to the knowledge of each team member.

1-10/10 depending on area of gardening.

...........

Council/Local Government Gardeners

Usually council gardeners are just required to strim grass verges or cut large grass areas whilst riding upon sit-on lawnmowers. Other gardeners may be required to plant out flowerbeds or hanging baskets.

3-7/10

.........

Landscape Gardener

More often than not this type of work is closely related to building work such as laying of patios, erecting fences & walls and so forth. Ability to engage with prospective client is required. Avoid shoddy work so as not to be regarded as a cowboy. Recommendations are forthcoming for good workmanship & timekeeping which in turn leads to more work. Hard physical work though.

7/10

........

Garden Designer

This profession requires an academic qualification and is regarded as one of the most complex art forms.

Knowledge of all of the above and more is required including colour co-ordination, drawing skills, written skills, management skills and bookkeeping skills. Also customer service skills are required.

10/10

..................

As the above list demonstrates, there is a level of gardening to suit all ranges and abilities.