I work in one of these big chains and some of us have a bit of knowledge, some don't, I think it's the nature of the job nowadays. I love my plants, and often take my own horticulture books into work, so I have extra info if I need it. We're a bit constrained by 'National' company policy as to what we can and can't sell, and I would love to have plants that are more suited to our geographical area. Our bedding is always UK grown. Our Co. has also started up a City and Guilds course for the separate job skills within the store, so we ARE trying to improve. Sad to say, there are always going to be people who think of it only as a job. I admit to getting a bit frustrated when I'm wet to my underwear, and told that I 'let' my plants die, or 'why isn't the plant that I want here', the prices have gone up, and where are the men on the dept to give advice on plants?. In our store, it's the women who have the expertise and knowledge and the passion for our plants that can be frustrated by time, bosses, and sometimes unthinking customers who can be very hurtful with their comments when we are short staffed. There are good and bad in most environments, but I think with gardening, look for the ones who're out in all weathers, and (dare I say it), the ones who, if they haven't got a particular plant but know where you can get it,will tell you.
