Nursery Grower (Organic Tree & Hedge plants)
Location: West Berkshire, UK
Position Type: Full-Time
Salary: £30,000-35,000 dependent on experience (DOE)
Reports To: Farm Manager
About the Role
We are a specialist, sustainable organic tree, hedge plant and perennial nursery producing approximately 150,000 plants annually. We are seeking a skilled and motivated Senior Nursery Grower to manage the full growing cycle—from seed through to plant sales preparation.
This is a hands-on role requiring strong horticultural knowledge alongside a structured, data-driven approach. The successful candidate will play a key role in growing plants from seed, soil health management, compliance with plant healthy and organic standards, and day-to-day nursery operations.
The nursery sits within a small and developing regenerative farm. It is essential that the Nursery Grower works with and understands the ambitions of the small farming team.
Key Responsibilities
Propagation & Plant Production
- Plan and oversee the sowing and propagation of up to 150,000 seeds annually
- Propagation of other trees, shrubs and perennials through various vegetative propagation methods
- Monitor germination rates and maintain accurate production records
- Manage plant care, including irrigation, weeding, and environmental conditions to ensure healthy growth
Soil Health & Organic Growing
- Maintain and improve soil fertility using organic methods and biological principles
- Develop and manage composting systems appropriate to nursery production
- Create and apply organic soil amendments, compost teas, and other natural inputs
Data Management & Compliance
- Maintain accurate and audit-ready records in line with UK organic certification standards
- Ensure compliance with plant health regulations and implement organic pest and disease control (IPM)
- Track stock levels throughout the growing cycle
Grading & Sales Preparation
- Grade plants according to size, quality, and readiness for sale
- Organise and oversee packaging, labelling, and quality control for dispatch
Continuous Improvement
- Review seasonal performance to identify improvements and inform future crop planning
- Research and implement innovative organic growing techniques to improve productivity and plant quality
- Attend industry events/ relevant courses to stay current with organic and regenerative growing practices
Operational Support
- Supervise seasonal staff during peak periods (sowing, grading, packing)
- Maintain awareness of sales channels to support effective production planning
Skills & Experience
Essential
- Excellent interpersonal skills and adaptability for working in a small team
- Practical experience in plant propagation and organic plant growing
- Strong understanding of organic growing principles and soil health
- Good record-keeping and organisational skills
- Ability to manage workload independently and as part of a team
- Keen interest in using technology or AI tools to improve efficiency
- Willing to work outside all year round
- Some weekend working will be required
- Valid UK driving licence
Desirable
- Qualification in Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field
- Experience with plant production at scale
- Familiarity with spreadsheets (Excel or Google Sheets) for tracking data
- Experience leading or supervising small teams
Personal Attributes and Opportunities
- Passion for sustainable and organic growing
- Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to quality
- Flexible and adaptable in a dynamic working environment
- Collaborative and a good fit for a small team
Summary
This is an excellent opportunity for a committed grower to take ownership of production within a forward-thinking nursery; one of a very few organic tree and hedge plant nurseries in the UK. The role offers scope for innovation, development, and meaningful impact on sustainable plant production.
Applications
If you are excited by this opportunity, please get in touch as we will be interviewing as we receive applications. Please send a covering letter and an anonymous CV to remove any bias, to [email protected].
Pay: £30,000.00-£35,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
