You may wish to consider the following advice when choosing your gardener:

• Be clear about what wok you want carried out. Put down in writing the exact details of what you want done and how much you are willing to spend.


• Choose a gardener that specialises in the type and size of work you want carried out and check that they have insurance.


• Ask for several written quotes detailing specifically what work needs to be done and the price you will have to pay.


• Ask for previous references or to see previous work and follow them up.


• Avoid paying cash up front and ask for a fully itemised receipt.


• Be wary of traders who call unexpectedly and offer their services - check them out.