Pros and Cons of Becoming a Self-Employed Gardener

Gardening is a pastime that’s enjoyed by millions – and for a select few, it can represent a respectable source of income. If you’re looking to make a living from gardening, and you’re looking to do so on a freelance basis, then you’ll want to first think about the advantages and disadvantages that this choice entails.

Let’s run through a few of the more significant ones.

Pros

The most significant advantage of working as a freelance gardener is that you’ll be able to set your own schedule. This means coming into work at a time that suits you, rather than at a time that’s foisted upon you by an employer. This may ultimately allow you to strike a better balance between your home and work lives. With all of that said, we should still bear in mind that you’ll still need to adapt to the needs of your clientele to keep them happy and make them regular clients.

Freelance gardeners also have the luxury of making their own decisions when it comes to methods and equipment. If you want to reinvest some of your profits in high-quality tools and protective equipment, then you’ll be at liberty to do so. Often, the investment can be more than worthwhile in the long term. For example, money spent on workwear might allow you to work in comfort outdoors, while promoting your fledgeling brand at the same time.

You’ll have the opportunity to pick your clients. This might mean dealing only with those who pay promptly, are courteous, and accessible – or it might simply mean following the money. You can set your rate, and, if you’re good, you might earn more than you would in a salaried position.

Finally, we should mention a benefit that’s felt by all gardeners: working outdoors can be good for you, both mentally and physically. You’ll get great job satisfaction.

Cons

There are a few downsides worth mentioning, too.

Gardening work is notorious for being beholden to the weather. If it decides to rain for weeks on end, or not at all, then your work will be put at risk. You might find that the coldest days are lost, and that your work is made more difficult during the height of summer. This exposes you to risk. If you’re an employee, some of this risk will be absorbed by the company for which you work. If you’re self-employed, then you’ll be facing the risk on your own.It’s also worth considering your expenses. The money you spend on equipment and travel can add up, as will insurance and taxation. The chances are very good that you’ll need to employ an accountant, especially if you have many clients and your affairs are complicated. This might be less expensive than not employing an accountant, but it’s still worth factoring in.