Head Gardener - 10-acre historic private Manor grounds

Overview

An experienced and knowledgeable Head Gardener is sought to lead the maintenance, development, and seasonal planning of a diverse and historic private garden near Maidstone, Kent. The successful candidate will lead a small team of two; one full-time and one part-time gardener and will be responsible for the ongoing care and enhancement of an exceptional and rich garden areas with various horticultural features.

Set within the grounds of a stunning Manor House, this 10-acre garden comprises a series of diverse and well-defined areas, each requiring a high level of horticultural expertise. Maintained to exceptional standards, this beautiful garden is open to the public via the National Garden Scheme and also serves as a wedding venue. Key features include a formal Walnut Tree Lawn with ornamental trees and shrubs, a woodland-style shade garden leading to a richly planted Rose Garden centred around a 300 year-old lime tree, and an extensive gravel terrace showcasing rockery plants and dwarf bulbs. A daffodil meadow connects to the naturalistic Glen Garden with its stream, shade loving perennials, and a bamboo grove. Additional highlights include a Sunken Pond Garden with spring fed water features, expansive island beds with varied planting, and a vibrant herbaceous border that offers seasonal interest.

Responsibilities

The Head Gardener will be expected to take full responsibility for the day to day management and seasonal direction of the garden, ensuring the highest horticultural standards across all areas. This is a hands on role, requiring excellent plant knowledge, and a genuine passion for both ornamental and productive gardening. The ability to plan and prioritise tasks, manage a small team, and work closely with the estate owners who take a close interest in the garden to reflect their vision is essential.

Qualifications

Suitable candidates will ideally hold academic horticultural qualifications and/or experience as a Senior Gardener on private estates. Applicants should have good horticultural knowledge as well as be physically fit and have the ability to safely operate and maintain garden machinery. Chainsaw and chemical spray certificates would be beneficial.

Working Hours

The working hours are 8 am to 4 pm Monday to Friday. References will be required at offer stage.

Salary

Circa £40,000 DOE

Location

Maidstone, Kent

Job No

EC73720