Gardening Courses

To start a gardening business in the UK, you will need to register your business with HMRC, obtain insurance, and purchase necessary equipment. You may also need to obtain a waste carriers license if you will be disposing of garden waste for your clients.

You don't need any formal qualifications to become a gardener, but some employers may prefer candidates with a horticulture or gardening qualification. Relevant qualifications include RHS Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture and Level 3 Diploma in Horticulture.

The time it takes to qualify as a gardener depends on which qualification you choose. RHS Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture can take up to 9 months, while a Level 3 Diploma in Horticulture can take up to 2 years. However, many gardeners gain experience on the job and do not have formal qualifications.

You will need basic equipment such as gardening gloves, trowel, pruning shears, watering can, and a rake. You may also need specialty equipment depending on the type of gardening class you are teaching, such as seed trays or potting soil.

The amount you can make as a gardener depends on your experience, the type of gardening work, and the location. According to Payscale, the average hourly rate for a gardener in the UK is £9.85, but experienced gardeners can earn up to £16 per hour. Starting your own gardening business can potentially earn you more, depending on your client base and rates.