Sole / Head Gardener

Established North Cotswolds Garden, by Jinny Blom

Private historic house in the heart of the North Cotswolds, with established gardens designed by Jinny Blom.

Approximately five acres of Garden are surrounded by around 40 acres of grazed parkland, woodland and wild meadows.

The gardens contain a wide range of elements including exquisite perennial borders, lawns (naturalised in some areas with bulbs), and a walled kitchen garden containing two glasshouses, numerous raised beds for vegetables, fruit and cut flowers.

The garden and landscape are well established and require expert maintenance to present them to the standard, design and aesthetic required.  The owner is looking for the garden to continue to be presented at its best and and evolve over time to maintain its freshness, including the potential for some smaller projects.  The owner is looking to enjoy and refine their garden rather than seeking fundamental changes.

The Sole / Head Gardener must have suitable experience to support the perennial planting, specialist pruning of shrubs and climbers, and to ensure the succession of produce and cut flowers from the Kitchen Garden.

There are large hedges which are currently maintained by a specialist contractor although the owner would be happy to provide the level of resource that best suits the Sole / Head Gardener. The Sole / Gardener will also support general duties such logs and garden/field maintenance including managing of external contractors where appropriate.  The garden includes sizeable working and propagation areas as well as necessary equipment.  Spraying and chainsaw certificates would be an advantage.   

The Sole / Head Gardener must be able to work proactively on their own and is required to live on site. A charming two-bedroom cottage with private garden is provided rent free (Community charge is covered but other bills for the account of the Head Gardener occupier).  There is a housekeeper on site and the property is within a beautiful village with shop, local pub, etc.

Normal hours of working and some flexible working will be required to support the essential tasks and communications with the owner including occasional weekend time if necessary.

A generous salary is offered to reflect the Sole / Head Gardeners experience and suitability.