The PGG is urging all paid members to complete a questionnaire, sent with this month's PGG journal, so it can compile recommended guidelines for pay and conditions to help gardeners who are seeking jobs or negotiating with employers.
Speaking at the meeting, held in Thorpe Perrow near Harrogate, PGG chairman Tony Arnold said: "Lots of us work outside the normal health and safety conditions and are at the mercy of employers. Some places expect you to buy your own tools and boots, gloves and clothes. There should be somewhere to wash your hands and somewhere warm and dry to sit down."
He added: "Gardeners feel their skills are not appreciated. They are expected to walk the dog or act as a security guard at night.
"We're not in a position to come up with pay scales like the old Agricultural Wages Board but we would be able to give people a starting point on the salary and conditions they should expect."
The PGG presented loyal service awards to Roy Balaam of Helmingham Hall in Suffolk, John Cuthbertson from the Sir ED Walker Trust in Darlington and Stan Rawlings from Lackham Park in Wiltshire.
Arnold said they had all impressed with their dedication and enthusiasm.
PGG training scheme graduate Tom Mason also received an award from PGG founder Brian Hutchinson.
Treasurer George Thorpe was re-elected for a further three years and Les Armstrong of Eaton Park in Cheshire was elected as the new vice-chairman of the north, replacing Trevor Nicholson of Harewood House in Yorkshire.
The PGG is planning job application and interview workshops for the new year.
