Senior Gardener
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Senior Gardener to join the gardens within a private estate located near Ludlow, Shropshire. The owners now require an experienced gardener with a proven track record of managing a horticulturally diverse garden to assist in the ongoing maintenance and development of the garden and grounds. This is a full-time permanent position which will give the successful applicant an opportunity to collaborate with the principles to develop the gardens further to become a truly spectacular open space.
Set against the backdrop of the Shropshire Hills and the Welsh Marches, the Grade I listed manor house dates in part as far back as the 12th century, the gardens are in the early stages of development, having been neglected for many years, thus providing the successful applicant with the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future development of the gardens. The manor is set within 74-acres of gardens and parkland with roughly 5-acres of formal gardens which currently feature a productive kitchen garden, glasshouses and fruit cages. The gardens also are home to a wild woodland, old yew hedges, formal lawns, ponds, wildflower meadow, croquet lawn and is home to chickens. A master plan for the garden has been created by renowned British Garden Designer, who holds many prestigious awards including multiple Chelsea Gold medals. These designs are to be implemented over time by the successful candidate; therefore, the owners are looking for a highly skilled candidate with experience in garden restoration to install the beautiful designs to a high standard.
Our client seeks an experienced gardener to help maintain the gardens on a year-round basis following the annual calendar. Suitable applicants will possess a recognised horticultural qualification as well as extensive experience in horticulturally diverse and historic gardens in a private estate setting focusing on project work. As such, excellent plant knowledge and technical skills are essential for this position with experience in compost management, propagation, weeding and rejuvenating beds. A good understanding of and experience with Kitchen Gardening and plant propagation is essential and a flair for floristry and creating beautiful interior displays for the main house is advantageous. A self-motivated, organised individual with a self-start attitude and proven track record of managing a diverse garden, with a strong work ethic, ability to work to their own initiative and willingness to work to consistently high standards are qualities which are essential for this role. Candidates will be flexible and willing to extend their duties where needed. As such, this is a physically demanding position which requires a fit and strong individual who is comfortable working in all weathers.
The owners are passionate about their garden and are open to ideas the Senior Gardener will have with regards to the development of the gardens. The position is primarily a sole role with part time help from an Assistant Gardener as well as some works cared for by external contractors, therefore previous experience in managing contractors and trainees will be advantageous for prospective candidate. Experience in the use and maintenance of a wide range of gardening machinery, which ideally the gardener should be capable of maintaining between services.
This exciting vacancy would be great for someone looking to work in a beautiful part of the country and join the community making this opportunity a way of life. The role comes with a recently renovated property which features 2 bedrooms, open plan reception rooms and a beautiful garden. The owners are happy to accept partners, dependents and pets (on a case-by-case basis).
Working hours are Monday – Friday with timings flexible depending on the season with statutory pension and holiday entitlement being 20 days plus Bank Holidays. Please note, the successful candidate with be offered subject to extensive reference checks, both written and verbal. Candidates will also need to provide evidence of qualifications held and hold a full driver’s licence.
SALARY: Up to £32,000 depending on experience
LOCATION: Ludlow, Shropshire
JOB No: EC64061
If this Senior Gardener role is of interest, please apply or contact Sophie Sharpe on 01233 733510 or info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk.
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Thank you for the interest you have shown in this vacancy. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to everyone. Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application will have been unsuccessful.
