An exceptional opportunity has arisen for an experienced Head Gardener to lead and develop a historically significant garden within a diverse rural estate in southwest Scotland. This prestigious role offers the chance to manage and enhance a unique 75-acre landscape, open to the public for seven months of the year.

The gardens benefit from a remarkable coastal microclimate, allowing a wide range of exotic and rare plant species to thrive. Set on an isthmus, the landscape includes an extensive rhododendron collection, mature specimen and champion trees, tree-lined avenues, sculpted landforms, a round pond, and a variety of distinctive garden areas. Formal elements include an ornamental walled garden with herbaceous and mixed perennial planting, as well as formal lawns and structured planting schemes.

The successful candidate will take overall responsibility for the management, development, and presentation of the gardens, ensuring the highest horticultural standards are maintained, particularly during the public opening season. This will involve planning and implementing seasonal operations, managing and mentoring a small team of gardeners, and developing a volunteer programme. The role also includes ensuring compliance with health and safety policies, overseeing the management and documentation of plant and tree collections, and working closely with the estate owners to design and deliver planting plans and ongoing garden improvements. Clear communication will be essential, including the preparation and discussion of annual and monthly plans.

Applicants must have proven experience as a Head Gardener, ideally within a private estate or historic garden setting, along with extensive plant knowledge across trees, shrubs, and herbaceous planting. Strong leadership and team management skills are essential, as is a passion for historic landscapes and plant collections. Candidates should demonstrate excellent attention to detail, a high standard of practical horticultural skills, and a minimum of six years’ garden management experience. Physical fitness, strong organisational ability, and a positive, professional attitude are also required.

Accommodation is provided with the role, with Council Tax paid by the employer. Utilities are the responsibility of the occupant, and pets and children are welcome. 

SALARY:  up to £55,000 (Dependant on experience)

LOCATION:  Dumfries and Galloway

JOB No: EC72637

If this Gardener vacancy is of interest, please apply below,  call Sara Yassin on 01233 733510 or  info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk

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Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Gardener vacancy.  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.

We are proud to work with:

• • the Professional Gardeners’ Guild
  • the RHS
  • the WFGA – offering the WRAGs Scheme
  • Arne Maynard Garden Design
  • Historic Houses
  • the HBG Training Programme

Tagged as: Experienced Gardener, Gardener, head gardener, Live In, Skilled Gardener