Head Gardener in Devon

Position Type: Full-Time, Live Out, Monday to Friday
Salary: £50,000 DOE negotiable

The Gardener will provide high quality, effective horticultural care and management of the gardens and grounds at our clients private estate. You will be responsible for maintaining the health and beauty of all plants, lawns, and garden areas, managing seasonal changes, fruit and vegetable production, overseeing garden staff, and supporting the Principal with horticultural and landscape planning.

This is a live out role, no accommodation is provided so you will need to live within commutable distance to the estate.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

GARDEN AND GROUNDS MAINTENANCE

• Maintain and care for the estate's gardens, lawns, flower beds, trees, shrubs, and hedges to a high standard.
• Execute seasonal planting, pruning, and other horticultural activities to the principals preferences.
• Manage and maintain lawns, including mowing, edging, fertilizing, and treating for pests or diseases.
• Care for the greenhouse, ensuring optimal conditions for plant growth and propagation.
• Implement pest control measures and address any garden-related issues.
• Manage the composting process and maintain soil health across the estate.
• Keep the estate looking neat and tidy at all times.

FORMAL GARDENS

• Groom and maintain formal gardens, including fine turf lawns, box hedging, formal beds, and topiary.
• Maintain and enhance the aesthetic appeal of formal garden features, including structured plantings and ornamental designs.
• Plan and execute the seasonal maintenance of formal garden areas, including feeding, pruning, and plant replacement.

HERBACEOUS BORDERS

• Maintain and enhance herbaceous borders, ensuring a vibrant and dynamic display throughout the seasons.
• Plan and manage the planting and care of perennial and annual plants within the borders.
• Regularly assess plant health, implementing pest and disease control measures as needed.

WALLED GARDEN

• Manage and maintain the walled garden, ensuring a productive and aesthetically pleasing environment.
• Oversee the care and development of climbing plants, fruit trees, and ornamental plants within the walled garden.
• Plan and execute (alongside the principal) the seasonal planting and care of plants within the walled garden, optimizing space and plant health.

FRUIT AND VEGETABLE PRODUCTION

• Oversee the cultivation and harvesting of fruits and vegetables, ensuring a consistent supply of fresh produce for the estate throughout the seasons.
• Manage the poly tunnel, ensuring optimal conditions for growing seedlings, vegetables, and fruits.
• Plan crop rotation, soil management, and pest control strategies to maximize yield and quality.
• Coordinate with household staff to ensure produce is properly harvested, prepared, and stored.
• Liaise weekly with the principal, chef and household staff on available produce.

STAFF MANAGEMENT AND SUPERVISION

• Oversee and manage a team of garden staff, including scheduling, training, and performance management.
• Coordinate and supervise external contractors when necessary, such as tree surgeons, landscapers, or pest control specialists.
• Manage the work schedules and tasks of the garden and grounds team, ensuring all areas of the estate are cared for consistently.

HORTICULTURAL PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT

• Assist the Principal in planning and implementing garden designs, plantings, and landscape features.
• Conduct research and provide recommendations on plant varieties, garden trends, and innovative horticultural practices.
• Plan and manage the garden budget, including the purchasing of plants, tools, and supplies.

GARDEN EQUIPMENT AND TOOL MAINTENANCE

• Maintain and service garden tools, machinery, and equipment, ensuring they are in good working order.
• Ensure the safe storage and handling of all gardening tools, chemicals, and fertilizers.
• Be mindful of Ensure the safe storage and handling of all gardening tools, chemicals, and fertilizers.

GENERAL

• Keep detailed records of garden activities, including planting schedules, maintenance logs, and equipment inventories.
• Monitor and manage the garden budget, keeping track of expenses and making cost-effective decisions.
• Provide cover during periods of absence of other staff, where necessary. Prepare the garden for family visits and special events, ensuring it is always in pristine condition.
• Assist with the upkeep of pathways, driveways, and other outdoor areas.
• Provide occasional support with minor landscaping tasks beyond the garden, such as maintaining outdoor furniture or assisting with pool area maintenance.
• Other ad hoc projects appropriate to the post, as delegated by the Principals and Chief of Staff.

*Please note that we cannot guarantee a response to every application*