![How much does weeding cost? [October 2024]](https://d21dfqs8hl0txa.cloudfront.net/cost-guides/main/how-much-does-weeding-a-garden-cost.png)
The short answer
- The cost to weed a garden in London is between £45 - £330 (inc. VAT)
- Outside of London, the cost to weed a garden is between £30 - £200 (inc. VAT)
- The cost varies depending on how much weeding is required and how persistent the weeds are
- Regular weeding is essential for maintaining a healthy, thriving garden
How much does weeding cost?
It can cost on average anywhere between £30 - £330 + to hire a gardener to weed a garden.
There are many factors that will determine the overall cost of weeding your garden, but the size and condition of your garden will usually be the largest cost factors.
Typically, gardeners charge an hourly rate, meaning that larger gardens will naturally result in higher costs.
Here’s a breakdown of the average cost to weed a garden in London and outside of London.
| Severity of weeds | Estimated time | Price range (outside London) | Price range (London) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low (e.g. a small lawn or a few flowerbeds with non-persistent weeds) | 1-2 hours | £30-£60 (Inc VAT) | £45-£110 (Inc VAT) |
| Mid (e.g. larger lawns or flowerbeds with persistent weeds) | 2-4 hours | £60-£140 (Inc VAT) | £90-£220 (Inc VAT) |
| High (e.g. large or overgrown lawns & flowerbeds with persistent weeds) | 4-6+ hours | £140-£200 (Inc VAT) | £180-£330+ (Inc VAT) |
What other factors affect the cost of weeding?
In addition to the size of your garden, other factors such as where you live, the condition of your garden, the type of weeds present and who you book with are all major cost factors.
1. Where you live
Gardening rates will vary depending on where you live. You’ll generally pay a higher price for a gardener in London compared to other cities, often paying at least a 20% premium.
However, gardens in London and other large cities are often smaller than those in rural or suburban areas. So, while the hourly rate may be higher, the total time required for weeding a smaller garden may result in a more comparable final cost.
2. Condition of your garden
Due to the density and spread of weeds, overgrown gardens require significantly more intensive labour and take much longer to clear than an already well-kept garden. As a result, it will cost more to weed an overgrown or neglected garden compared to a garden which is regularly maintained.
3. Types of weeds growing in your garden
Some weeds are tricker to get rid of than others. Bindweed is especially tough to remove due to its fast-growing roots and long life. When near other plants, bindweed can extend its roots through those of surrounding plants, making removal challenging and often a longer, more costly process[1].
4. Whether you book with an independent gardener or a well-established company
Independent gardeners often charge less than larger, well-known companies. Some sole gardeners may even operate below the VAT threshold, meaning you could save paying 20% on top of the service you’re booking.
However, opting for an established gardening company comes with several advantages, including greater availability and a responsive customer service team to assist if anything goes wrong.
What are the benefits of hiring a professional to weed your garden?
Despite recent research showing that weeding is the most disliked gardening task in the UK, many people still attempt to tackle it themselves.[2] Weeding can be time-consuming and hard on your back, so hiring a professional gardener to take care of it is worth considering.
Professional gardeners bring the expertise needed to effectively tackle various types of weeds, from persistent perennials, like bindweed, to annual species. An experienced gardener can also weed a garden much more efficiently than the average person, so you can focus more time on tending to plants you actually care about.
How often should you weed your garden?
Weeding is an essential task for the regular maintenance of your garden. Weeds are not only an eye sore but they also compete with your plants for space, water and light, hindering their growth. [3]
It’s important to weed your garden throughout the year, especially in spring and early summer when most weeds emerge.[4]
Many gardeners, including specialists at Housekeep, offer recurring services for ongoing maintenance like weeding, allowing you to enjoy a beautiful garden without the added stress.
When is the best time to weed your garden?
The best time to weed your garden is typically in spring and early summer as this is when most types of weeds start to sprout. Removing weeds at this early stage prevents them from establishing strong roots, making them easier to control. The soil during this time is usually softer due to rainfall, making pulling weeds much easier.
Where can I find a gardener to weed my garden?
There are many ways to find a gardener, from recommendations from family and friends to local online community boards. Many local garden centres also offer gardening services themselves or can recommend a trusted professional.
If you want to take the hassle out of searching for a reliable gardener, you can book with a specialist tradesperson service, such as Housekeep. With just a few taps, you’ll get a quote, and we’ll match you with a reliable, local gardener who can visit at a time that works for you. Need help with garden waste disposal? Just let us know when you book, and we’ll take care of it, adding the cost to your bill.
Written by Henry Paterson
With years of experience in the industry, Henry is one of Housekeep’s home services specialists. He’s delivered talks at industry events including the Ideal Home Show and regularly features as an industry expert for publications including the Sun, Mail Online, Martha Stewart and many more.
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