Become an APL member

The Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) is a specialist group of the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), made up of landscaper and garden designer members of the HTA who meet rigorous standards of quality and professionalism.

In 2025, the association is celebrating its 30th anniversary. The APL is the only landscaping scheme operator of TrustMark, a government initiative that promotes professional trade to consumers. Members of the APL are regularly inspected and agree to follow a customer charter with clients.

The HTA is the leading trade association representing and supporting businesses in the UK garden industry. With a membership comprising retailers, growers, manufacturers, landscapers, and garden designers, the HTA actively advocates for the sector, fostering growth, sustainability, and innovation.

Business Support

Gain access to essential business documents and templates on health and safety, CDM regulations and more. Members can tap into free* expert advice lines covering a broad spectrum of critical business concerns. Benefit from the preferred partners, who we hope will save time and aid in reducing business costs.** Enjoy exclusive market data which includes wages and labour benchmarking to help compare costs effectively. Stay informed about the latest legislation and policy updates to remain compliant.

As a member, you can receive personalised assistance from the APL team to understand how your association can help meet your business needs.

APL Awards

Celebrate the excellence of UK landscaping with industry peers. We are proud to recognise and reward the high standards of landscape contracting, design and maintenance within our association. Enhance your profile by winning one of the prestigious awards, elevating your reputation with businesses and clients, and showcasing your commitment to quality.

Quality Assurance

The APL comprises accredited landscape companies who design, build and maintain gardens, recognising the high quality workmanship and skills within the industry. To join, companies undergo a rigorous assessment process covering business processes, health and safety protocols, and quality of work. This includes online and on-site garden visits, ensuring continued excellence throughout membership.

Community

A thriving community stands at the heart of the association, belonging to a supportive network can elevate both your work and your business. WhatsApp groups keep members connected and informed, alongside regional cluster meetings and online support groups providing opportunities to share experiences, collaborate and support each other.

TrustMark

The APL is the only landscaping scheme operator of TrustMark***, a government-endorsed initiative that promotes professional trades to consumers. This accreditation is recognised by the public, assuring your customers of your high-quality service. With TrustMark, you also have access to a range of member benefits and discounts.

What our members say

My business would have really struggled if it wasn’t for the support I received from the APL and its members. The reputation I have been able to build for my business within the APL, through their Awards and other opportunities, has enabled new colleagues to feel confident in recommending me to their clients and suppliers.”
Bramley Apple Design

Being a member of the APL has been a game- changer for my business. I have constant support and access to advanced technical help, contract guidance and support, design advice and business development direction – all of which has been key to the growth of me as a Designer and the scale of my business.”
Adam Vetere Landscape & Garden Design

Being an Associate Member of the APL provides me with some really valuable networking opportunities, where I get to meet and build relationships with accredited members and suppliers. The regional cluster meetings and the annual awards are a must for all members. In addition, the regular updates I receive are key to ensuring I stay up to date with the latest market information, that I can reflect in conversation with my clients
Steady Consulting

A good community feel with updates on the issues regarding the industry
Instant Scenery Ltd

Enquire now

HTA Services team:

0333 003 3550

[email protected]

Horticultural Trades Association
Horticultural House
Chilton, Didcot
Oxfordshire
OX11 0RN

*Some advice lines may become chargeable after a period of use.

**You must be a member of the HTA to access the advice lines and preferred partners. The HTA will receive a commission fee based on a successful referral. The amount of the commission will depend on the type of order placed. Full details will be provided by the preferred partner before entering the transaction.

***Accredited and Professional Gardener membership only.