Sole Gardener
A rare and exciting opportunity has arisen for a top-level Sole Gardener near High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. This new role will suit an academically qualified and talented horticulturist with demonstrable garden management experience on large and diverse private estates. The position is offered with a generous salary and a large three-bedroom property located within the wider estate with extensive views and its own garden.
The stunning 4-acre formal gardens are set within 70-acres of meadows, woodland and farmland. Designed by Jinny Blom approximately ten years ago, the gardens exemplify the English Country Garden style and sensitively compliment the manor house and surrounding views. The garden is divided into ‘rooms’ with each area significantly different to the next; a large Ha-ha overlooking a beautiful valley, a yew topiary garden that evokes images of Alice in Wonderland, and a large rose garden framed by a backdrop of mature native woodland. The gardens have been managed by a local contractor in terms of general maintenance, but it is now time to hand over to a dedicated and knowledgeable full-time permanent gardener to realise the full potential of this spectacular property.
The gardens of the primary manor house as well as the gardener’s house will require ongoing management and further development where necessary. A new wing to the manor house has been added, with an additional garden area that is to be managed and improved to maturity. The main gardens include an expansive rose garden including climbing roses on walled garden areas, a topiary garden, wild flower areas, an orchard, woodland and paths, a glasshouse and polytunnel, cutting flower garden, mixed beds/borders, terraces, and expansive fine laws throughout.
Due to the expansive rose and topiary areas, the garden requires dedication and excellent attention to detail as well as a strong work ethic. Assistance may be offered by way of specialist contractors where necessary, i.e. during peak growing season. Applicants for this role must be physically fit, hands-on and talented horticulturists with a very well-rounded knowledge of garden management. Good ornamental plant knowledge is essential, as is an ability to carry out species specific pruning (particularly of roses), soil treatment/management, pest and disease control and the safe operation and basic maintenance of a full range of garden machinery. An academic horticultural qualification at RHS level 3 or equivalent/above is desired, as is the ability to operate a chainsaw safely, though the latter will not discount otherwise suitable applicants. Experience in kitchen gardening and plant propagation/glasshouse work is required alongside a demonstrable ability to carry out efficient seasonal garden management and planning. Due to the rural location of the property, a full driving licence is required of all applicants.
The welcoming property owner has a genuine love of the garden and so will not be entirely distant but involved and engaged on a level considerate of the successful candidate’s extensive experience. As areas of the gardens require further work, the Sole Gardener will work through the options and opportunities with the owner and manage the implementation of the agreed designs/initiatives from a hands-on perspective.
This is a fantastic opportunity for a skilled, qualified and experienced horticulturist to take ownership of a truly stunning garden on a long-term basis. Applications are sought from experienced Sole/Senior and Head Gardeners in search of genuine reward for their talent and a garden in which to achieve their full potential.
SALARY: Circa £35,000 – £45,000 DOE
LOCATION: High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire
JOB No: EC14275
If this Sole Gardener vacancy is of interest, please apply or contact Mark Read on 01233 733510 or info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk.
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Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Sole 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 Sole Gardener vacancy will have been unsuccessful.
