Looking after your outdoor space is important. But who should you hire? A landscaper or a gardener? Many people mix the two. But they do very different jobs. This guide will help you understand the difference.
What Does a Landscaper Do?
A landscaper changes how your yard looks. They help design and build outdoor areas. If you want a new layout or style, a landscaper is the one to call.
They can:
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Add patios, paths, or driveways
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Build pergolas or arbours
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Install outdoor kitchens or firepits
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Add ponds, fountains, or waterfalls
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Use bricks, stones, and pavers to shape your garden
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Set up lighting for your yard
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Work on large garden plans like xeriscaping
Landscapers look at your whole space. They check your soil, drainage, and layout. Then they create a plan that fits your needs. You get to choose how your yard will look, and the landscaper builds it for you.
What Does a Landscaper Actually Do?
What Does a Gardener Do?
A gardener takes care of your plants. They keep your garden clean and healthy.
They can:
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Mow your lawn and trim the edges
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Pull out weeds and keep pests away
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Water your plants and flowers
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Plant new shrubs or flowers
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Give advice on what to grow
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Help with composting and feeding plants
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Check for plant diseases and treat them
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Look after irrigation systems
Gardeners understand plants well. They know how to care for trees, flowers, and grass. If you already have a garden and need help to look after it, a gardener is your best choice.
What Is Included in a Landscape Plan?
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Landscaper | Gardener |
|---|---|---|
| Main Role | Designs and builds outdoor spaces | Maintains gardens and plants |
| Focus Area | Big-picture design | Day-to-day care |
| Tools Used | Concrete, wood, pavers, lighting | Lawn tools, shears, hoses |
| Type of Work | One-time or big projects | Ongoing regular care |
| Knowledge Area | Design, building, outdoor planning | Plants, soil, pests, watering |
Which One Do You Need?
Ask yourself the following:
✅ Do you want to change how your garden looks?
✅ Do you want to add a firepit, pond, or outdoor kitchen?
✅ Do you want paths or new lighting installed?
If you said yes to any of these, you need a landscaper.
Now, ask yourself this:
✅ Do your plants need care and watering?
✅ Is your lawn growing too fast?
✅ Are there weeds or bugs in your garden?
If you said yes here, a gardener is right for you.
Sometimes, people need both. For example, you may want a new garden layout first. Then, after the build is done, a gardener can help you look after it.
Skills That Landscapers Have
Landscapers are good at:
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Outdoor design and planning
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Building patios and decks
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Installing lighting and plumbing
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Working with soil and drainage
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Using concrete and stone for garden paths
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Creating peaceful spaces with water features
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Understanding outdoor safety rules
They also know how to mix nature and design. Their work often boosts the look and value of your home.
Skills That Gardeners Have
Gardeners are good at:
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Lawn care and mowing
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Pruning and trimming bushes
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Spotting sick plants and treating them
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Knowing local plants and weather needs
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Choosing the right fertiliser or compost
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Setting up sprinklers or watering tools
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Helping your garden grow in every season
A good gardener brings life and colour to your space. They work with care and love for nature.
What to Expect When Hiring a Landscaper?
When Should You Hire a Landscaper?
Hire a landscaper if you want:
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A big change to your garden’s shape or style
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A full redesign for better use of space
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To add fun features like lighting, water, or stonework
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Help with drainage or uneven ground
Landscapers are perfect for big projects. They turn ideas into outdoor beauty.
When Should You Hire a Gardener?
Hire a gardener if you want:
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Help keeping your lawn neat
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Your flowers to bloom more often
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Advice on which plants work best in your soil
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Help dealing with bugs or garden pests
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Regular upkeep like watering and trimming
Gardeners make sure your yard stays healthy all year round.
Let Flowergirls Gardening Bring Your Garden to Life
Whether you need a creative landscaper or a skilled gardener, Flowergirls Gardening is here for you. We offer both services, all in one place. From building stunning outdoor spaces to maintaining vibrant gardens, we do it all.
We proudly provide some of the top landscaping services in Lafayette LA, trusted by families and businesses alike. Our friendly team listens to your ideas and brings them to life with care.
Call us today to book your consultation. Let’s make your yard a place you’ll love every day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a gardener do?
A gardener focuses on plant care. They water, weed, prune, and maintain flowers, lawns, and trees to keep your garden healthy and attractive year-round.
Can one person be both a gardener and a landscaper?
Yes, some professionals offer both gardening and landscaping. However, many specialise in one area, so it’s important to check their skills before hiring.
Which is more affordable: a gardener or a landscaper?
Generally, gardening services cost less because they focus on maintenance. Landscaping involves design and construction, which usually requires more time, tools, and labour.
When should I hire a landscaper?
Hire a landscaper when planning big changes, like building a patio, installing lighting, or redesigning your yard for better style and function.
Do gardeners help with irrigation systems?
Many gardeners can maintain or adjust simple irrigation systems. For complex installations or repairs, a landscaper or irrigation specialist is often needed.
