Deputy Head Gardener – Full Time
Location: Near Bruton, Somerset
Salary: £35,000–£40,000 depending on experience
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8.00am–4.30pm year-round
Holiday: 4 weeks plus Bank Holidays
Relocation assistance available
An excellent opportunity for an experienced, enthusiastic and passionate gardener to join a small
garden team on a substantial private estate in Somerset.
Developed since 1979 by previous and current owners, this private 15-acre garden is considered by
many to be one of the most magical and evocative gardens in England.
The successful candidate will work closely with the Head Gardener in maintaining, developing and
improving the established and varied gardens to an extremely high standard.
This is a hands-on horticultural position ideally suited to someone with genuine horticultural
knowledge, excellent plant knowledge and a passion for plants and planting, who is ready to take on
greater responsibility and play an active role in the continuing development of the garden.
The Role
Working alongside the Head Gardener, and deputising when required, responsibilities will include:
Maintenance and development of herbaceous and mixed borders
Contributing to new planting schemes
Planting, dividing and propagation of perennials
Pruning and care of roses, shrubs and climbers
Cutting and preparing flowers for the house
Lake and pond maintenance and aquatic planting
Plant health, pest and disease monitoring and remediation
Seasonal planting and displays
Organising and prioritising seasonal work
Supervising other members of the gardening team when required
Safe use and routine care of garden machinery and equipment
Liaising with house staff and specialist subcontractors
Maintenance of interior tropical plants
Vegetable and fruit growing, care and harvesting
Greenhouse work, including propagation and seed sowing
Occasional weekend watering duties during warmer months
About You
The successful candidate will have several years' professional gardening experience, ideally gained in a
significant private garden, country estate, historic garden or similarly high-quality horticultural
environment.
A recognised horticultural qualification such as RHS Level 2 or above would be an advantage, although
practical experience, excellent plant knowledge and enthusiasm are equally important.
You will be physically fit, practical and comfortable working outdoors throughout the year. You should
be able to work independently as well as part of a small team, use your initiative and take pride in
maintaining a garden to an exceptionally high standard.
A full driving licence is essential.
Experience driving a tractor and trailer would be highly desirable.
The Opportunity
This is a long-term position offering the right person the opportunity to become closely involved with a
wonderful established garden, while also contributing ideas and horticultural expertise to its future
development.
Salary: £35,000–£40,000 depending on experience
Hours: Full-time, Monday–Friday, 8.00am–4.30pm year-round
Holiday: 4 weeks plus Bank Holidays
Relocation assistance: Available
Please apply with a CV and a brief covering letter outlining your horticultural experience and particular
areas of horticultural interest.
Selection Process
As this is a skilled horticultural position, shortlisted applicants invited to interview will be asked to
complete a small number of verbal and practical horticultural tasks. These form part of the interview
process and are intended to give candidates the opportunity to demonstrate their practical skills and
plant knowledge.
Pay: £35,000.00-£40,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
