Experienced Gardener - Live Out - EC6914

An opportunity has arisen for an Experienced Gardener to join an award-winning, internationally renowned wine-producing brand based in West Sussex.  The successful applicant will join the Head Gardener and one other gardener in working towards objectives for the gardens, ponds and non-Vineyard grounds, including the beautiful private gardens of the CEO.  The successful candidate will be responsible for the general maintenance and development of the gardens with a view to creating an enjoyable experience for guests and visitors.

Set within 13-acres of gardens, the formal aspect comprises 6-acres around the manor house.  A small cottage garden within the grounds is to be maintained in addition to the above.  Garden features within the estate gardens comprise a kitchen garden, wildflower areas, a cut flower garden, greenhouse, fruit cage, an orchard, cloud-pruned box hedging, topiary, a formal courtyard, a large pond and surrounding woodland.  The garden areas of the estate are not managed organically, though chemical use is kept to a minimum.

Applicants will ideally hold an academic horticultural qualification at Level 2 (or above) and should have at least two years’ experience of working in private estate gardens and/or horticulturally diverse public gardens. Candidates must be confident in their use of garden machinery and with their plant knowledge, have an ability to work to a high standard at all times, and in working to established health and safety standards. Chemical spray certificates are desirable but not essential.  

Responsibilities of the successful applicant will include lawn care (mowing, edging, feeding, scarifying, aerating and watering, weeding), planting and pruning, maintenance of the kitchen garden and cut flower garden, greenhouse, fruit cage and orchard, basic maintenance of all garden equipment (and associated liaison with the Estate Maintenance Department as necessary).  Applicants should have a basic awareness of pests and diseases and, with appropriate training if required, will be able to apply chemicals where appropriate.  Maintenance of the irrigation system will be necessary at times, as will that of the composting bins and ponds.  As a member of the small garden team, assistance with gritting will also be required in winter.

Applications are sought from experienced and knowledgeable private estate gardeners who possess good horticultural knowledge and a positive, friendly character.  The successful applicant will be self-motivated, have excellent communication skills and attention to detail.  Good physical fitness and a commitment to the garden is required, as is the ability to work well within a small team; with diplomacy and a positive attitude.  A full driving licence and your own transport are required for this role as the estate is located rurally. 

SALARY:       Up to £25,000 DOE

LOCATION:  West Sussex

JOB No:          EC6914

If this Experienced Gardener vacancy is of interest, please apply or contact Mark Read on 01233 733510 or info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk.

Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Experienced 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 Experienced Gardener vacancy will have been unsuccessful.