How to Become a Landscaper

Quick Facts

  • Average Salary: $35,150/year
  • Required Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Required Experience: Entry-level through apprenticeship
  • Licensing: Not required in most states, but may need local permits for certain jobs
  • Job Outlook: 6% growth (2020-2030)

What Does a Landscaper Do?

A landscaper's role is to make outdoor spaces look attractive and functional. This can involve planting flowers, trees, and shrubs, as well as building and maintaining structures like fountains and fences. In addition to these tasks, landscapers often maintain existing outdoor spaces by mowing lawns, pruning trees and shrubs, and implementing pest management methods.

The work environment for a Landscaper is outdoors, in a variety of weather conditions. They work in private yards, parks, commercial properties, and other outdoor spaces. This is a physical job, requiring considerable manual labor and machinery operation.

Responsibilities of a landscaper often include meeting with clients to discuss their landscaping needs, creating and implementing landscaping design plans, and maintaining the health and appearance of plants and outdoor spaces. For those who love nature, being outside and working with their hands, a career in landscaping can be very rewarding!

Skills Required

Technical Skills

  • Knowledge of Plant Species
  • Landscape Design and Installation
  • Soil Fertility
  • Pest and Weed Management
  • Gardening Tools Proficiency
  • Irrigation Design and Maintenance
  • Knowledge of Safety and Sanitation Standards

Soft Skills

  • Patience
  • Communication
  • Project Management
  • Creativity
  • Physical Stamina
  • Attention to Detail

Education and Training Requirements

Required Education

Licensing and Certification

State Requirements

Not required in most states, but may need local permits for certain jobs

Salary and Job Outlook

How to Get Started