Full-Time Head Gardener

Main Duties

Overall responsibility for: Woodland, pond, walkways, gravel areas, orchard, polytunnel, greenhouse, walled garden, drives, borders, lawns, courtyard, plant containers and hanging baskets, hot tub cleaning and water monitoring.

Liaise with the General Manager to create and adhere to a matrix of routine and seasonal tasks.

Plan, cost, and obtain quotes for garden projects and pass to the Estates Manager for authorization.

Create, develop, and maintain a diverse kitchen garden producing seasonal herbs, vegetables, and edible flowers for the hotel in close liaison with the Head Chef.

Direct the gardens team, assigning and monitoring routine tasks including weeding, pruning, mowing, digging, bonfire supervision, leaf blowing, watering, sowing, harvesting, salting, and plant feeding.

Demonstrate a keen interest in wildlife conservation and implement initiatives for the support and welfare of wildlife within the Palé estate.

Plan, select, and administer appropriate fertilizer for different plants at the correct time of year and in appropriate weather conditions.

Plan and undertake pruning appropriate to species, maturity, time of year, and weather conditions.

Monitor soil conditions, plan and implement measures to preserve/improve soil structure and add/remove fertility appropriate to the area, time of year, and weather conditions.

Monitor temperatures and manage appropriately (fleecing plants, fan heaters, ventilation, watering, salting steps/paths/drives).

Plan propagation (edible crops, trials, winter/summer displays, adapt for supply and demand).

Identify and monitor plant pests and diseases, and implement prevention and tackling measures.

Keep a record of sowing, harvesting, temperature taking, fertilizer applications, pond treatments, and tree damage.

Report regularly to the General Manager on activities and scheduled work.

Personal Requirements

Extensive knowledge and understanding of horticulture with proven practical experience through the seasons.

Experience in establishing and maintaining a diverse walled garden producing seasonal herbs, vegetables, and edible flowers.

Keen knowledge of trees, species, conditions, importance, and impact on the estate.

Motivated, well-organized, with clear understanding of business expectations.

Skills and knowledge to maintain gardens to the required standard.

Excellent communication skills and a positive, willing, and flexible attitude.

Other details

Full-time permanent contract.

Meals on duty.

Onsite parking.

Generous employee discounts.

Full-time permanent position, 40 hours per week, five days over seven, Monday to Sunday.

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