What does a gardener cost in the Netherlands? (2026 prices)
By Hovenier Hoofddorp · Updated July 19, 2026
A professional gardener (hovenier) in the Netherlands costs €35 to €75 per hour including 21% VAT in 2026. Basic maintenance sits at the lower end; specialist work with machinery at the top. For projects such as patios or full garden makeovers, Dutch gardeners quote a fixed total price up front — you should never get an open-ended hourly bill for a project.
What are the hourly rates in 2026?
| Type of work | Rate 2026 (incl. VAT) |
|---|---|
| Basic maintenance (mowing, weeding, trimming) | €35 – €50 |
| Pruning shrubs and small trees | €40 – €55 |
| Specialist work (landscaping, machinery, large trees) | €45 – €75 |
| Our rate (maintenance) | €35 – €55 |
Good to know as an international: rates always include 21% VAT (btw) when quoted to consumers, and reputable companies do not charge call-out fees within their own service area. Materials (plants, tiles, sand) are charged separately or included in a fixed project quote.
What do common garden projects cost?
| Project | Price indication 2026 |
|---|---|
| Patio, installed (per m²) | €80 – €150 |
| Fence, installed (per metre, 1.80 m high) | €60 – €250 depending on material |
| Tree pruning (mature tree) | €150 – €500 |
| Tree felling incl. wood removal | €200 – €800 |
| Garden design | €250 – €600 |
| Planting plan | €150 – €400 |
| Complete garden makeover (per m²) | €100 – €200 |
Example: a typical 60 m² back garden makeover with new paving, a fence section and fresh planting costs roughly €6,000 to €12,000 all-in.
How do Dutch gardening quotes work?
- The quote visit is free and without obligation at any reputable company. You receive a written quote (offerte), usually valid for 30 days.
- Fixed price for projects: patios, fences and makeovers are quoted as one total. Only open-ended maintenance is billed hourly.
- Maintenance subscriptions (onderhoudsabonnement) are the standard Dutch solution: a fixed yearly price for scheduled visits every 4 to 6 weeks. Cheaper than ad-hoc calls and your garden never falls behind.
- Payment is by bank transfer after completion (typically 14-day terms). Deposits are only usual for large projects with significant material costs.
How can you save on gardening costs?
- Take a subscription — regular small visits are far cheaper than yearly rescue operations, and subscribers get priority scheduling.
- Bundle jobs into one visit: hedge, lawn and borders together beat three separate appointments.
- Plan projects off-season (autumn/winter): more schedule availability for landscaping and major pruning.
- Choose low-maintenance design: dense planting with ground covers saves many billable hours every year.
- Always ask for a fixed quote on anything that is not routine maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is VAT included in Dutch gardener prices?
Yes — prices quoted to consumers in the Netherlands must include VAT (btw, 21% for gardening work). If a quote says "excl. btw" it is a business-to-business price; as a private customer, always compare including VAT.
Are quotes really free in the Netherlands?
At reputable companies, yes. The standard process: the gardener visits, measures and discusses your wishes, and you receive a written no-obligation quote within a few days. Be wary of anyone charging for a basic quote visit within their own service area.
What does a yearly maintenance subscription cost?
It depends on garden size and visit frequency. A typical mid-size garden visited every 4 to 6 weeks in season lands on a fixed yearly price agreed up front. You pay the same regardless of how fast things grow — the risk is ours, not yours.
Why do rates differ so much between companies?
Experience, specialisation, region and overheads. A certified tree specialist with a crane charges more than a maintenance gardener. Randstad rates are above the national average. Always compare what is included: waste removal, travel and materials can hide big differences.
Hovenier Hoofddorp is your gardener for the greater Amsterdam area — from garden landscaping and garden maintenance to premium villa gardens with pools, nationwide. Fixed prices, reply within 24 hours.
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