Graduate case studies

Natasha -

Gardener

Even though many of our graduates will have progressed in their careers since completing a case study, they are still of interest to students who wish to gain an understanding of the world of work.

About the job

Main responsibilities

Dealing with client enquiries, advertising, book keeping, accounting. Maintaining gardens of all sizes and producing planting plans.

Typical day

First client; treat lawn with spring weed and feed. Explain to client how to maintain and when I shall return to scarify etc. Second client; prune roses and tie in climbing roses. Explain to client what I have done and how it improves plant growth. Third client; weed borders, mow lawn and edge garden.

What do I enjoy about my job?

Working with people and plants. Some of my clients are elderly and cannot do their own gardens. Just mowing the lawn and making their garden look nice can brighten their whole day. I enjoy the science behind pruning and the creativity of planning planting schemes. I get to work in some beautfiul parts of the countryside.

Challenging aspects

This can be physically demanding work. Being self-employed can be stressful when the weather is as unreliable as it has been the last few years.

Why did this area of work appeal to me?

There was a cross over from archaeology to horticulture.

Skills/qualifications I use in my job?

Knowledge of soil science has proved really useful in this job.

Training I receive as part of my job

I have had to do a spraying certificate and I regularly read trade magazines. I put myself through part-time qualifications through the RHS.

Career information

Brief history since leaving University

2003 MA in Archaeology at Manchester

2003-2005 Archaeologist with Trust for Thanet Archaeology

2006 NVQ in horse care and studying part-time for my RHS certificate.

2006-2008 Working free-lance as an archaeologist with 2 days a week working as a gardener. 2008-2010 Working as a gardener for Wealden Landscapes in Kent. 2010 Historic and Botanic Gardens Bursary Scheme placement at Walmer Castle Gardens.

2011. Became a self-employed gardener.

Where do I see myself in the future?

I would like to expand my business and start taking on garden design work.

Advice to students

My piece of advice to students

Always think outside of the box and don't be afraid to work for yourself. There may not be as many jobs out there but people still want things done and they are willing to pay for it.