In the land of weeds and wilted flowers, weary gardeners have been seeking relief, especially after the pandemic caused an estimated 18 million Americans to take up gardening in 2021. Their tired hands and aching backs yearn for assistance, as the diligent maintenance of these flourishing jungles becomes almost as daunting as discussing politics with one’s in-laws. Here’s where the knights in shining overalls, known as professional gardeners, come to the rescue.

Forget about landscapers and fine gardening companies, professional gardeners are the superheroes you didn’t know your backyard needed. They’ll swoop in and fight off weeds with their bare hands, rescue thirsty flora, subdue pesky infestations, and prune shrubs into artfully wild shapes. All while you kick back and sip a refreshing beverage, so you have more time to ponder the mysteries of the universe, like “Why do flamingos stand on one leg?”

Whether you need them to descend upon your garden weekly, biweekly, monthly, or seasonally, these green-thumbed warriors have got your back (literally, as you won’t need to risk more chiropractor visits). So, how do you find these gardening champions to help you conquer your wilting battles? Ask around, check Facebook groups, wave down the nearest green-fingered stranger, or browse online. You might even stumble upon a magical being called a “garden coach,” who won’t lift a trowel but will kindly share their wisdom.

Now douse yourself in some budgeting potion, as these professional paragons might cost around $50 an hour, depending on where you live and their skill level. If you’re at a loss about where to invest your hard-earned doubloons, ask them their thoughts on which plants would thrive, or which areas of your garden need extra attention. Be mindful of their time; they have other overgrown kingdoms to aid and probably a shortage of patience when it comes to chit-chat.

As you usher in your newly discovered helpers, take a moment to appreciate the power that lies within your own backyard. Your professional gardener can breathe new life into your aging shrubs, revitalize your drooping flower beds, and turn your garden from drab to fab with the wave of a rake.

Feeling generous? Why not bestow the gift of a gardener upon a friend or loved one? Because let’s face it, they’d probably appreciate a well-tended garden more than another “World’s Best Dad” mug.

So embrace the wonders of the professional gardener, and watch as your once-weary garden leaps into bloom, your woeful weeding woes washed away. As it turns out, heroes don’t always wear capes; sometimes, they carry garden shears.