An experienced and highly motivated Senior Gardener is required to take day-to-day responsibility for the gardens of a large private estate in the Cotswolds.
This is a varied, hands-on role covering ornamental and productive gardens, glasshouses, lawns, wildflower areas, ponds and woodland. The successful candidate will have strong horticultural knowledge and plantsmanship, with a particular interest in sustainable and organic gardening.
Working alongside the wider estate team, you will ensure the gardens are maintained and developed to an excellent standard throughout the year.
Key Responsibilities; (include but not limited to)
• Manage and maintain ornamental and productive gardens to a high standard.
• Grow organic fruit, vegetables, plants and cut flowers for the estate and house.
• Manage the glasshouse, including propagation from seed and cuttings.
• Undertake seasonal pruning and manage fruit trees, lawns and planted areas.
• Help care for wildflower areas, ponds, coppices, woodland and trees.
• Manage weeds, pests and diseases using sustainable methods wherever possible.
• Oversee gardening and landscaping contractors and order plants and materials.
• Operate and maintain garden machinery, tools and equipment.
• Keep the potting shed, tools and gardening areas clean, tidy and well organised.
• Organise gardening and planting at two estate holiday cottages and assist with landscaping at other local properties.
• Assist with the care of estate animals when required, including poultry, birds and dogs.
• Support occasional household, event and wider estate duties as required.
• Participate in an agreed on-call arrangement for property emergencies, including electric gate failures and alarm activations.
• Arrange suitable weekend cover for essential watering duties, particularly during periods of hot or dry weather.
About You
You will be an experienced, practical gardener who takes pride in maintaining gardens to an exceptional standard. You should be confident working independently, managing priorities and collaborating with a small estate team.
You should also be comfortable around animals and willing to assist with their care when required.
Discretion, reliability, flexibility and a professional approach are essential
Experience & Qualifications
• 3–5 years’ professional gardening experience, ideally in a private garden or estate.
• Strong horticultural knowledge and plantsmanship.
• Experience with ornamental gardens and fruit and vegetable production.
• Knowledge of organic and sustainable gardening practices.
• Experience operating and maintaining garden machinery.
• Full UK driving licence (and own car)
• PA1 and PA6 certification.
• Excellent references.
A varied, long-term position with responsibility for a diverse range of established gardens and productive growing areas on a private Cotswold estate. Accommodation is available if required.
Please e mail your CV and salary expectation to ella@sugarellacooks.co.uk