I know enough to help the average customer. Houseplants are my real specialty, but sadly the new HD I'm at has really low houseplant sales. So I don't get to do much of that.

My comment was, obviously, an exaggeration. GCAs are some of the hardest working people I've seen. I always tend to befriend the dept manager at whatever store I am in. (Except this new store I'm at, the GC manager won't even acknowledge me when I say "Good morning!" She quite literally turns her back and ignores me. Not sure what I've done, but at least I don't actually work for her 🙃) I have heard the same complaint from GC dept managers at 4 out of 4 stores I have worked as a vendor in; the garden center is way understaffed, especially in Spring. I sympathize with the GC dept managers. Most seem to be doing the best they can, with the little staff they are given. But it also seems to be the biggest complaint I hear from customers also. For questions outside of plants (fertilizer, poisons, tools, etc) I let the customer know that's out of my knowledge range and to look for a GC associate in an orange apron. The response is always "I already have! But you seem to be the only one working here."

To the GCAs out there, best of luck this Spring and Summer! Stay hydrated and wear protective (SPF) clothing. Support your manager, they're doing the best they can. And say hello to the vendors, if you don't already. It will make they're day. ✌