Garden assistant

What does a gardening assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

A gardening assistant works with practical tasks related to the maintenance and care of gardens, parks, and green areas. Common duties include planting, weed removal, lawn mowing, pruning of shrubs and trees, and watering. The work is often outdoors and can be physically demanding, especially during spring and summer when plant growth is most vigorous. Gardening assistants typically work in teams or under the supervision of a gardener, sometimes in contact with park authorities or private property owners. The work environment is characterized by varying weather conditions and seasonal work periods, which means working hours and workload can fluctuate throughout the year.

Salary development over time

The salary for a gardening assistant has shown a clear increasing trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 23,500 SEK per month, which increased to 26 400 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 27 500 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 17 percent over this period. This salary growth reflects both an increased demand for green space maintenance and a general adjustment to rising living costs. The demand for labor remains stable, contributing to steady salary development, although the largest increases occurred between 2022 and 2023. Gender pay gaps persist, with women earning on average 96% of men's salaries.

Gardening assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 27 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 24,900 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 28,500 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 165 SEK
• Women: 26,800 SEK/month
• Men: 27 900 SEK/month
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do
• Regional differences: The highest salaries are found in the regional sector, with the public sector having the lowest levels

Education and qualifications

To work as a gardening assistant, no formal higher education is required, but high school education with a focus on natural resources, horticulture, or similar is a common pathway into the profession. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers offer introductory or internal training. Some employers may require courses in plant knowledge, work environment, or machinery operation, especially for more advanced tasks.

• High school education: Natural resources program, horticulture specialization (3 years)
• Internships: Work-based learning is common and provides valuable experience
• Courses/certificates: Plant knowledge, work environment, machinery operator certificates
• Prerequisites: Often no formal requirements, but good health is necessary for physical work
• Self-study: Possible to increase competence through online courses and literature

Common benefits and compensations

Gardening assistants are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to holiday pay, overtime pay for work during unsociable hours, and occupational pension. Companies and municipal employers may also offer wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes opportunities for further training in the field. Seasonal employment can entail extra compensation during intensive periods.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a gardening assistant is moderate and characterized by a balance between supply and demand. Since the profession is often seasonal, it can be difficult to find full-time employment year-round, which means many work temporarily during peak seasons. Physically demanding tasks and outdoor work in varying weather conditions require good health and endurance. Salary levels are relatively consistent across the country but can vary slightly depending on sector and region. The challenge also lies in the need for flexibility and a willingness to quickly learn new skills, especially for newcomers to the profession.

Tips for aspiring gardening assistants

To succeed as a gardening assistant, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in plants and gardening, and to be prepared to work practically and physically. Precision helps with plant care and keeping the workplace tidy, while endurance and strength are important for long outdoor workdays. Being flexible and able to adapt to different tasks and weather conditions is also a great advantage. It’s wise to seek internships or summer jobs to gain insight into the work, and to be open to learning new skills since tasks can vary greatly. Good teamwork skills are valuable as the work often occurs in teams, and showing initiative and willingness to take responsibility in daily tasks is beneficial.

Key facts about the Gardening Assistant profession

• Salary range: 24,900–28,500 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education (natural resources/horticulture)
• Work environment: Outdoors, physically demanding, seasonal
• Demand: 360 job openings nationally, moderate opportunities
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of men's salaries

Career pathways and future prospects

After gaining some experience as a gardening assistant, there are opportunities to advance to more qualified roles, such as gardener, landscape gardener, or supervisor within park management. Further education in plant knowledge, machinery use, or landscaping is also common to broaden skills. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for the group including berry pickers and planters, where gardening assistants are included, the job market is expected to be balanced with moderate opportunities over the next five years. Demand is expected to remain unchanged, and the number of available positions is stable. For those wishing to develop within the profession, starting their own gardening service or specializing in pruning or plant breeding are also options.

Frequently asked questions about Gardening Assistants

• What does a gardening assistant earn per month?
  - The average salary is 27 500 SEK, with a range between 24,900 and 28,500 SEK.
• What is the hourly wage for a gardening assistant?
  - The average hourly wage is 165 SEK.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do within the profession.
• What education is required to become a gardening assistant?
  - High school education in natural resources or horticulture is most common, but there are also opportunities to learn on-site.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The job market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities in the coming years.
• Where are the highest salaries found?
  - The highest salaries are within the regional sector, especially among men with high school education.
• What tasks does a gardening assistant perform?
  - Planting, weed removal, lawn mowing, pruning, and green space maintenance are common tasks.