Landscaper

You would construct, plant and look after gardens and parks to make pleasant environments for people to live, work and relax in.

You’d make the most of the land or space you are working with to make it look attractive. Some landscapers specialise in interior projects with plants and garden features, often in shopping centres or large office blocks.

The work would vary depending on whether you are working inside or outside, the time of year and the condition of the space you are given. You’d need to use a variety of tools, and possibly also machines like small mechanical diggers.

You would follow the designs drawn up by garden designers or landscape architects. You’d use your knowledge of plants to ensure that they grow and thrive.

You would:

• Discuss requirements with clients

• Work from design plans

• Order supplies

• Prepare the ground or interior space

• Turf and seed lawns

• Plant and prune trees and shrubs

• Put in new plants

• Build features like paving, paths and water features

• Construct rock or water gardens

After completing a project, you’d advise the client on how to look after the space. You’d offer an on-going maintenance service.

• Grow Careers - Horticulture careers information from the Institute of Horticulture

• British Association of Landscape Industries - Supports professional landscapers, garden designers and landscape suppliers

• Royal Horticultural society - Careers information from UK charity established to share the best in gardening

• Lantra Scotland - Training and skills for the land-based, aquaculture and environmental sector