A rare and exceptional opportunity has arisen for an experienced and highly knowledgeable Head Market Gardener to take a leading role in the development and future expansion of a large-scale market garden situated within a substantial and well-established private estate in Maidstone, Kent.

The market garden currently extends to approximately 15 acres to cultivate the finest possible varieties of fruit, vegetables, and herbs, whether traditional or non-traditional. It incorporates young and established orchards of apple (with over 150 varieties), pear, plum, and cherry trees, all selected for quality and flavour rather than yield. In addition, approximately twelve varieties of strawberries and raspberries are grown, predominantly rare and heritage cultivars. The estate also includes glasshouses which are currently derelict and will require full replacement as part of the wider development programme.

The position will involve a significant development phase, including the reinstatement of the glasshouses and the delivery of a comprehensive landscaping programme. While the garden is not operated as a commercial enterprise, the produce will be supplied to an associated artisanal food business, a small number of local restaurants, and the family. As a result, a thorough understanding of relevant regulations, compliance standards, and food-supply requirements is essential.

The successful candidate will be a Market Gardener of exceptional knowledge and proven experience, particularly in succession planting and the cultivation of vegetables, fruit, herbs, edible flowers, and micro herbs. They will demonstrate the ability to design, develop, and build a skilled team, with the objective of creating a market garden of scale, productivity, diversity, and aesthetic distinction, employing the most effective and sustainable horticultural methods. While the role is largely autonomous, close coordination with the wider estate team will be essential.

Applicants must possess extensive horticultural expertise in market and kitchen garden management, with a clear focus on the continuous supply of high-quality produce. Clear, consistent, and professional communication with the owners will be required throughout both the development phase and ongoing operation of the garden. A strong working knowledge of propagation techniques, organic pest and disease management, plant husbandry, and health and safety legislation is essential.

This exciting and unique role will suit an individual of outstanding knowledge, enthusiasm, and ambition, with a genuine desire to create a garden of rare distinction producing superior-quality crops. Exceptional technical competence, combined with a high level of organisational and leadership skill, is fundamental to success in this position.

A three-bedroom cottage is available for the successful applicant, should accommodation be required. All  bills are the tenant’s responsibility.

SALARY:  £40,000 – £45,000 DOE plus accommodation

 LOCATION:  Maidstone, Kent 

JOB No:  EC70870

If this Head Market Gardener is of interest, please click ‘Apply for job’ below or contact Sara Yassin on 01233 733510 or email info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk

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Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Head Market Gardener role.  Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to every one.  Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this vacancy has been unsuccessful.

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Tagged as: Head Market Gardener, Maidstone