Head Gardener (Part time)
Location: Lake District (Workington/Maryport area)
Contract: Part-time, year-round.
Start: Immediate / As soon as possible
Overview
We are seeking an experienced, knowledgeable, and passionate gardener to maintain and
care for a private garden in the Lake District for a prestigious client. This is a hands-on,
long-term role for a skilled professional with a genuine love of plants and garden design,
who takes pride in horticultural excellence, attention to detail, and a consistently high level
of professionalism.
The successful candidate will also be involved in the final stages of garden installation and
finishing touches, working closely with the client and any relevant specialists to ensure the
garden is established, thriving, and maintained to an exceptional standard. The gardener
will be encouraged to contribute thoughtful ideas and recommendations on plant care,
seasonal management, and the long-term health and development of the garden.
Working Pattern
Summer: 23 days per week
Winter: 12 days per week
(Days to be agreed and may offer some flexibility) Key Responsibilities
Day-to-day maintenance of the private garden, ensuring it is presented to an exceptional standard year-round
Planting, pruning, deadheading, mulching, feeding, and general horticultural care
Wildflower care, border maintenance, and seasonal tasks
Monitoring plant health and proactively addressing pests, diseases, or deficiencies
Supporting the installation and final detailing of the garden, including planting schemes and layout refinement
Offering recommendations on plant care, seasonal changes, and long-term garden development
Maintaining tools, equipment, and a tidy working environment
Experience & Skills Required
Minimum 5 years professional experience maintaining private gardens or high-quality landscapes
Extensive plant knowledge, including shrubs, perennials, trees, and seasonal planting
Lake Districtspecific horticultural knowledge strongly preferred, including experience with local soil types, weather conditions, exposure, and suitable planting choices
Strong practical horticultural skills and an excellent eye for detail
Ability to work independently, using initiative and sound judgement
A high level of professionalism, discretion, and reliability
Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors in all seasons
Location & Access
Must have easy and reliable access to the Workington / Maryport area
Ability to travel independently to the garden location is essential
Desirable (but not essential)
Relevant horticultural qualifications
Experience working with newly installed or developing gardens
Full UK driving licence
Personal Attributes
Passionate about gardening and plant care
Calm, trustworthy, and respectful of a private environment
Presents themselves with professionalism and pride in their work
Takes satisfaction in delivering consistently high standards
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