Gardener (Walled Garden)
Overview
Our client, based near Andover, seeks a dedicated, skilled and detail-oriented individual to be part of a gardening team on their prestigious private estate.
The Gardener will have a passion for horticulture with a strong work ethic, they will have the opportunity to contribute to the beauty and upkeep of the gardens and will be responsible for maintaining and caring for the gardens under the guidance of the Team Leader, who in turn reports to the Head Gardener.
The area maintained by the Walled Garden Team is the Walled Garden, Glasshouses, the Orchard, Service Yard, Composting Facility, and Homewood South. Occasionally situations may arise that require the jobholder to perform other duties or tasks as may be requested by the Estate’s Management Team.
Job duties
Responsibilities of the Gardener (Walled Garden) on a Private Estate near Andover, include:
Garden Care & Maintenance:
- Assist the Team Leader in planning and executing garden maintenance tasks
- Perform regular watering, weeding, pruning, and fertilising of plants both in glasshouse environments and outdoors
- Monitor and control pests and diseases in the garden
- Maintain garden tools and equipment in good working condition
- Plant, cultivate, and maintain vegetables, fruit, cut flowers, flowers, shrubs, trees, indoor and containerised outdoor plants and other plants
- Care of indoor and containerised outdoor plants
- Propagation of seasonal vegetables raised by different methods to provide replacement plants for the vegetable and fruit displays
- Assist in the implementation of landscaping projects
- Ensure that the owner, all residents, team members and visitors on the Estate enjoy a welcoming and well-maintained and welcoming environment, regardless of the weather or any operational challenges that may arise
Attention to Detail:
- Regularly inspect all areas, including those not seen regularly, to ensure they are tidy and free of weeds.
- Pay special attention to high-traffic areas in the garden and ensure that they are kept in pristine condition.
- Always respect the privacy of the estate’s residents and guests.
Team Collaboration:
- Work collaboratively with other members of the garden team to ensure efficient operations and coverage of all tasks
- Communicate effectively with your Team Leader regarding any issues, supply needs, or maintenance concerns
Inventory Management:
- Assist in managing gardening supplies and equipment, ensuring that all items are stocked and in good working condition
- Report any maintenance or repair needs to your Team Leader promptly
Adhere to Safety and Compliance:
- Ensure all your activities comply with relevant health and safety regulations and best practices
- Read and understand any risk assessments and follow / implement safety protocols as directed by the Team Leaders and Head Gardener
Candidates must be/have:
- Previous practical experience in fruit and vegetable production is preferred
- Previous experience in glasshouse displays is also an advantage
- Knowledge of plant care and maintenance techniques including glasshouse production
- Relevant machinery certifications preferred, including compact tractors, small utility vehicles, and PA1, PA6a certifications and experience with horticultural power tools
- Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment
- Good communication skills and a professional demeanour
- Physical stamina and ability to perform manual labour
- Certification in horticulture or related field is a plus
- Valid UK driving licence
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards
- Excellent time management skills and the ability to prioritise tasks effectively
- Must be discrete, reliable, trustworthy, honest and able to maintain confidentiality
- A proactive attitude, flexible and adaptable with a strong work ethic, willing to muck in and help other teams on the Estate
Hours
Full-time, with flexible working hours, including occasional weekends.
Location
Near Andover, on the Hampshire/Wiltshire border.
Salary and Benefits
£30,000 – £35,000, + discretionary bonus.
25 days of holiday, 5% pension contribution, subsidised medical insurance and support of an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
Job ref
CP829b: Gardener (Walled Garden) on a private estate near Andover, on the Hampshire/Wiltshire border.
