Hiring Guides
Landscaper or Gardener? Who Does What in Your Backyard
By TradieCorner Team · · 1 min read
The words get used interchangeably, but landscapers and gardeners usually do quite different work. Calling the right one first saves you time explaining a job that isn't theirs.
What landscapers do
Landscapers design and build. Think of them for projects that change the shape or structure of your outdoor space.
- Garden design and full backyard makeovers
- Retaining walls, paving, steps and garden edging
- New lawns, irrigation and drainage
- Decks, pergolas and outdoor entertaining areas (often with a carpenter)
- Large-scale planting
What gardeners do
Gardeners maintain what's already there, usually on a regular schedule.
- Mowing, edging and lawn care
- Hedging and pruning
- Weeding, mulching and seasonal planting
- Green waste removal and garden clean-ups
When you might need someone else
Large tree removal or major pruning is a job for an arborist. Some councils protect certain trees, so check the rules before anything significant comes down. Taller retaining walls may need engineering and approval — ask your landscaper and your council.
Getting a useful quote
For landscaping, a rough sketch of the space with measurements, plus photos, helps enormously. For gardening, describe the size of the garden, what needs doing and how often. Our guide on writing a job brief covers the details.
This article is general information only and isn't legal, financial or trade advice. Requirements vary by state and territory and by the type of work.
