I've been really invested in landscaping and garden work, doing everything from building garden beds around my aunt's house to mowing and maintaining her lawn. I love being outdoors and working with my hands, but I'm also cautious about getting seriously hurt—like, I definitely don't want to lose a finger or end up in the hospital because of machinery. I'm 25, pretty active at 180 lbs, but I want to make sure I can handle this kind of work without severe injuries. I've had some minor cuts and bruises, but I'm curious about the real risks out there. How dangerous is landscaping, especially for someone like me who's worried about serious injuries? I'd love to hear your experiences—what kind of injuries have you or others faced in this line of work? And do you encounter any high-risk situations with heights or heavy machinery?
4 Answers
I’ve been in this industry for years, and I can't stress this enough: never work shirtless with a hedge trimmer on a ladder! That’s how accidents happen—trust me, it's a story my husband learned the hard way back in the day. Keep it safe, and be aware of your surroundings!
First off, don't skimp on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Always wear your gear, take regular breaks, and stay hydrated. Most injuries come from people not paying attention or skipping safety measures—but there's always risks, no matter where you work. Just keep your eyes peeled and stay safe!
You’re probably at more risk for repetitive strain injuries than something dramatic like losing a limb. Just make sure you're using proper lifting techniques and your PPE—if you stick to those, you should be okay. Once you get used to the physical part, you’ll likely find it manageable!
The risk of serious injuries isn't as high as you might think, unless you’re climbing trees or working with heavy machinery. Just keep an eye on your back and be cautious with the chemicals you use. Long-term exposure can be a problem if you’re not careful. Focus on maintaining good posture and strength in your core to protect yourself!

Yikes, that sounds rough! Definitely learning from that example—safety first!