Sir, On behalf of the Association of Landscape Contractors of Ireland (ALCI), I write to complement Jane Powers on her articles in the April 3rd property supplement. A lovely garden, as well as affording much pleasure in itself, does indeed enhance the value of one's property. It was interesting to note the figure of 5-10 per cent ascribed to property value increase by your auctioneering source.
As well as alerting home owners to this, Ms Powers has also done a service in cautioning the public on the landscapers they use. The development of a garden by a landscape contractor is very much a work of trust how can a homeowner be sure that a proper job is done when the promised package needs years to mature? This particular aspect of the landscaping business makes it, unfortunately, most attractive to the type of "cowboy" highlighted by Ms Powers.
The ALCI consists of professional horticulturists dedicated to the landscaping business and to the production of a quality standard. Should our members part, from an acceptable standard, a" code of practice exists which can ultimately lead to the members dismissal from ALCI. Any applicants are rigorously assessed as to their competence, based on their track record over previous years.
By demanding of ourselves high standards of professional practice, we offer our clients a service which will protect the investment they are about to make in their garden. Our members are listed in each of the Golden Pages area directories. Yours, etc., PRO, Association of Landscape Contractors of Ireland, Southern Region, The Enterprise Centre, Kildare Town, Co Kildare.