As you embrace your new surroundings, one of the joys of Danish living is having access to lush private gardens, community green spaces, and even small city balconies that become cozy oases. Whether you’ve just moved into a villa in the suburbs of Aarhus, a townhouse in Copenhagen, or a country home in North Zealand, making the most of your outdoor space quickly becomes a priority. But turning that green vision into reality often requires the expertise of the best gartners in Denmark.
And this is where things get tricky: navigating the Danish gardening service market isn’t always straightforward for expats. In fact, according to Denmark’s Statistics Office, about 13% of private homeowners hire gardening services annually, and yet 80% of expats report difficulty in accessing reliable local tradespeople, including garden services. Also, language barriers, unfamiliarity with pricing norms, and differences in gardening etiquette or expectations all become potential obstacles. On top of that, Denmark has strict environmental practices and growing preferences in line with Nordic climate conditions, which can make DIY or overseas-style gardening plans difficult to implement on your own.
Here are the key points we cover in this guide:
- Denmark offers a strong market for professional gardening services, with hourly rates typically between DKK 300–600.
- Foreigners face unique hurdles, including language barriers, unfamiliar gardening styles, regulatory differences, and limited tax knowledge.
- Key considerations include checking for English-speaking staff, registered businesses, and service packages eligible for tax credits via servicefradrag.
- There are several reputable companies like Greenkeeper.dk, Your Garden ApS, and Handyhand.dk known for their expat-friendly approach.
- Danish garden beauty focuses on minimalism, native plants, and seasonal flow—diverging from ornamental or heavily manicured gardens common in other countries.
If you’re looking for specific advice on craft- and handymen in Denmark, we also have separate guides that dive into those topics in more detail; from handyman services to home renovations, plumbers, and masons, to electricians, carpenters, homebuilders, interior designers and furnishing services.
Why Gardening Services in Denmark Can Be Complicated to Navigate
When you’re not a native Danish speaker and you’re unfamiliar with local craft- and handymen service customs, even something as seemingly straightforward as hiring someone to mow your lawn or design your garden can become an unexpectedly stressful experience. Additionally, one of the biggest hurdles foreigners face is the language barrier. While many Danes speak excellent English, not all gardening professionals do — especially those in smaller towns or older, family-run businesses.
Beyond language, differences in aesthetic preferences can cause confusion. Moreover, Danish garden design is heavily influenced by minimalism, native plants, and seasonal variation — quite different from the lush, curated lawns popular in the US or the ornamental gardens more common in parts of Asia. The idea in Denmark is often to let nature lead, embracing imperfection and wildness. If you’re unfamiliar with that concept, you may find it surprising or even frustrating when your gardener suggests “less is more” in the form of native grasses, gravel paths, and hedgerows instead of sculpted flower beds or exotic plants.
Another complexity arises from legal and technical aspects, such as complying with municipal regulations on hedge heights or maintaining shared green spaces in communal housing. Besides, Denmark also has a strong DIY culture, which means fewer companies offer comprehensive gardening packages — and those that do might charge higher rates or have long waiting lists.
Lastly, let’s not forget the climate. Denmark’s cool, relatively wet weather, short growing seasons, and unique light conditions necessitate soil-specific and climate-adaptive gardening techniques. This is not “one-size-fits-all” gardening, and employing someone who really understands local nature is essential — especially if you’ve moved from a continent with vastly different flora and weather patterns.
That’s why finding a gardener who not only understands the local environment but also the needs and concerns of a foreign clientele is vital.
What to Know Before Hiring Gartners in Denmark
Hiring gardening services in Denmark can be simple and satisfying—if you know what to look for. For foreigners, choosing the right gartner (gardener or landscaping professional) means not only finding someone with good horticultural knowledge but also someone who understands your preferences, offers transparent pricing, and is comfortable communicating in English.
According to the Danish Business Authority, the average hourly rate for gardening services in Denmark ranges from DKK 300 to DKK 600, depending on the complexity of the work and the region. However, many expats are not aware that some gardening services are eligible for Denmark’s Servicefradrag (service deduction), potentially reimbursing up to DKK 6,600 per adult per year through tax deductions for approved work on your private residence — another reason to choose certified and invoice-providing companies.
Here’s what foreigners in Denmark should consider before hiring a gardening service, along with a curated list of the best gardening companies catering to expats.
1. Language and Communication
Always verify that the company can offer service in English, especially if you’re discussing complex landscaping ideas or need guidance on plant types. Furthermore, misunderstandings can easily happen when technical vocabulary is involved. Most companies that focus on international clients advertise their English-capable staff explicitly.
2. Local Gardening Styles
Danish gardens tend to prioritize native biodiversity and low-maintenance beauty. Expect suggestions like wildflowers, insect-friendly spaces, native trees, and edible gardens — all aligned with Denmark’s sustainability ethos. If you’re imagining a French-style sculpted space, be prepared to compromise or find a provider that specializes in mixed garden concepts.
3. Qualified vs. Unqualified Providers
Denmark has many self-employed gardeners or small firms, but not all are insured, certified, or eligible for tax deductions. Moreover, always look for providers who are registered with the CVR (Central Business Register) and can issue proper invoices to benefit from servicefradrag.
4. Year-Round Maintenance
One key difference in Denmark is the clear shift in gardening tasks according to season. In addition, spring and summer focus on design, planting, and lawn care. Autumn is for pruning and winterproofing, while winter may require snow removal or prepping garden beds. Choose a provider who understands year-round management or offers seasonal packages.
5. Urban vs. Rural Services
Big cities like Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense have specialized urban gardening concepts, including balcony and rooftop gardening. What’s more, rural areas tend to have more generalist services, so define your needs well in advance.
Top 7 Gardening Services in Denmark for Foreigners
Here are the most recommended companies and services known for their quality, reliability, and strong communication with international clients:
1. Handyhand.dk
Best for: Flexible tasks and hourly gardening help
Handyhand is a popular Danish platform that connects homeowners with local freelancers for tasks such as gardening, mowing, weeding, pruning, and more. Also, many of the freelancers speak English, and profiles include client reviews and hourly rates, making it ideal for expats who want short-term or one-off gardening help without a formal contract.
2. Greenkeeper.dk
Best for: Professional lawn care, hedge trimming, and full maintenance plans
Greenkeeper is an established nationwide service covering everything from lawn care to seasonal trimming and weed control. Additionally, they are known for their professional approach, clear communication in English, and ability to tailor maintenance packages for expats unfamiliar with Denmark’s gardening seasons.
3. Nem Hæk
Best for: Instant hedging and privacy solutions
If your priority is to quickly gain privacy in your yard or redesign your fencing, Nem Hæk specializes in hedges — grown, delivered, and planted. Moreover, the team includes bilingual staff and offers modern solutions such as pre-grown hedge screens, ideal for urban properties.
4. Træ & Busk
Best for: Tree surgery, orchard planning, and major garden projects
This Copenhagen-based company is excellent for more complex horticultural needs, including fruit tree planting, controlled pruning, and full-scale design projects. They’re especially adept at helping expats with rural or villa gardens and value native Danish plants. Expect a consultation in fluent English and environmentally conscious techniques.
5. Den Grønne Gartner
Best for: Sustainable gardening and organic maintenance
Den Grønne Gartner emphasizes sustainability, using organic fertilizers, ecological pest control, and native plant landscaping. Their services are favored by expat families interested in biodiversity, homegrown food, and kid-friendly gardens. They also know the paperwork required for servicefradrag compliance.
6. Your Garden ApS
Best for: Full landscape architecture and custom build-outs
Ideal for new homeowners or major renovation projects, Your Garden ApS provides full-service solutions from 3D garden planning to implementation. Their bilingual project managers are experienced in working with multinational families, and they handle everything from patios to plant selection. While on the pricier end, the value is in flawless execution and transparent budgeting.
7. Nordic Gardens
Best for: Modern Scandinavian garden design and city terraces
Based in Aarhus with services stretching to Copenhagen, Nordic Gardens is known for its clean Nordic aesthetic. Perfect for stylish urban dwellers who want a cohesive look with low maintenance. They work with a wide portfolio of expat clients and are proactive in offering bilingual consultations and eco-conscious materials.
Other Services You Might Need as a Foreigner in Denmark
While finding the right gardener is a crucial step in making your Danish life more comfortable and enjoyable, there are several other service categories that often go hand-in-hand with gardening needs. For example, many expats investing time in outdoor spaces also turn to professionals for outdoor carpentry (e.g., decking, pergolas), home maintenance, or sustainable landscaping enhancements such as solar lighting or irrigation systems. These add-ons not only improve your garden space but also increase the property’s value and reduce long-term maintenance.
Here are related services that many foreigners in Denmark explore after booking gardening services:
1. Outdoor carpentry and decking installation – Ideal for garden terraces, playhouses, and outdoor kitchens.
2. Landscaping and hardscaping services – Pathways, patios, stone features, and lighting installations.
3. Window cleaning and exterior home maintenance – Seasonal upkeep and cleaning support.
4. Moving and relocation services – Especially useful when setting up a new home and starting landscaping projects.
5. Housekeeping and property management – Great for those with secondary homes or vacation properties.
6. Snow removal and winter services – A practical need in the colder Danish months, especially in areas with heavy snowfall.
FAQ About Gartners in Denmark for Foreigners
1. Do the best gartners in Denmark for foreigners speak English?
Answer: Many do—especially those working in larger cities or targeting international clients. However, it’s important to verify language abilities before hiring, either through their website or by contacting them directly.
2. Should I expect seasonal garden services from the Best Gartners in Denmark for Foreigners?
Answer: Yes. Gardening in Denmark is highly seasonal. Spring and summer focus on planting and growth, while autumn includes pruning and winter-readying. Winter may involve planning or snow removal services.
3. Which gardening service is the best gartners in Denmark for foreigners?
Answer: Platforms like Handyhand.dk are excellent for newcomers due to flexibility and user reviews. Greenkeeper.dk and Your Garden ApS also offer project-based engagement and bilingual support ideal for first-time homeowners in Denmark.
4. Is it easy to find a gardener in smaller towns in Denmark?
Answer: It can be more challenging compared to cities like Copenhagen or Aarhus. In rural areas, services are often more general, and fewer professionals may speak English, so starting your search early is advised.
5. What’s the best time to book a gardening service in Denmark?
Answer: Late winter to early spring is ideal for consultations and planning since many companies fill up their schedules quickly during peak months (April to August). Booking early ensures more availability and better pricing.
