What does a Landscaper do?
Published 3 min read
A landscaper is someone who designs and maintains gardens and other outdoor spaces. This can include everything from mowing lawns to planting trees and shrubs. Landscapers may work for private homeowners or businesses, such as parks and golf courses.
Landscaper job duties include:
- Plan and design residential and commercial landscapes
- Install gardens, lawns, and hardscaping
- Maintain landscapes by mowing, trimming, edging, pruning, fertilizing, watering, and herbicide/pesticide applications
- Plant trees, shrubs, flowers, and other plants
- Design and install irrigation systems
- Select appropriate plants for specific locations and conditions
- Calculate landscape material needs and costs
- Prepare project proposals and cost estimates
- Keep records of materials used and work completed
- Meet with clients to discuss their needs and desires for their landscape
Landscaper Job Requirements
Most landscapers have at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, such as an associate's degree in horticulture. Many community colleges offer programs in landscape design and horticulture. Some landscapers may also choose to pursue certification through the National Association of Landscape Professionals or other organizations. Landscapers typically need one to three years of experience before they can become fully proficient in the trade.
Landscaper Skills
- Mowing
- Trimming
- Planting
- Fertilizing
- Watering
- Weeding
- Raking
- Snow removal
- Leaf removal
- Mulching
- Edging
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How to become a Landscaper
There are many ways to become a landscaper. One way is to get a job as a groundskeeper at a park or other public space. Another way is to work as a gardener for a private residence or business. There are also landscape companies that hire workers to maintain and improve outdoor spaces.
The best way to become a landscaper is to have some experience in the field. This can be gained through working in a nursery, garden center, or landscaping company. It is also helpful to take courses in horticulture or related subjects. Landscapers need to know how to identify plants, understand their growth cycles, and know how to care for them. They also need to be familiar with landscape design principles and have some experience in using landscape tools and equipment.
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