HEERA ALAYA

ARTERIES

“For sites to look attractive, it is important to be thorough
and work in a way that is not disturbing to others.”

ALFRED
Landscape caretaker, USA

July 1st, 2022

Heera Alaya: Good morning, Alfred.

Alfred: Good morning.

Do you have a few moments to spare?

Of course, I do.

Could you please describe your job responsibilities?

I have been with a landscaping company for 11 years, managing plants in this area and a few others. I maintain plants year-round by regularly watering, pruning, and replacing any damaged plants.

For sites to look attractive, it is important to be thorough and work in a way that is not disturbing to others, for instance, restaurants with outdoor seating. We also rotate seasonal flowers to make the area beautiful.

And it is beautiful.

How frequently do you water these plants?

Every three days.

Do you keep a record of the scheduled watering dates?

Yes, we have a set schedule to follow.

How many gallons of water does the tank hold? And what is the procedure when you run out of water?

The tank holds 500 gallons [of water]. We fill the tank before we leave the company site, and if we run out of water, we refill it at designated points along our route.

Do you have a co-worker?

I do [have a co-worker]; he is watering plants in the next block. It is always the two of us working together. We have a replacement for the day only on our day off.

What does your typical workday look like?

Most mornings, I wake up at 4.00 am. I have breakfast before leaving home at 5.30 am and reach the site by 6.30 am. It typically takes me about an hour to complete tasks across several buildings in the area.

I manage five job sites for the same company. By the time I finish work and return the tanker to the company, it could be around 4:00 pm, depending on how quickly we get through traffic. The most challenging part of my job is driving. I am moving from one job to another, and my focus must be on the road.

By the time I reach home, it is close to 6:30 pm, and I am tired. I have been doing this job for a while, so my body has gotten accustomed to it. On my day off, I relax and visit friends and relatives.

What should we recognise about the role of a landscape caretaker?

Plants are delicate, and we must take care of them regularly, which some people don’t understand. Occasionally, when people pass by, they compliment us, which is welcome. I appreciate it.

The work you do is one of the reasons this area is appealing. Thank you again for allowing me into your workspace and speaking with me.

Oh, you are so welcome.

Photographer for Animals, CA