Overview
An excellent opportunity for a knowledgeable and self-motivated Sole Gardener to manage the maintenance and ongoing development of the gardens surrounding a stunning Georgian Manor House near Wetherby, Yorkshire. This is a full-time position offering either live-in or live-out arrangements, depending on the candidate’s preference and circumstances.
Gardens
The private 5-acre garden blends traditional English elements with naturalistic and productive areas, creating a setting of beauty and horticultural interest. Features include wraparound borders with roses, clematis, and herbaceous perennials; a wisteria-covered front and side elevation; a courtyard with container-grown olive trees and a mature fig; two large formal lawns; a mature beech tree; woodland with seasonal bulbs (snowdrops, bluebells, daffodils) centered around a Cedar of Lebanon; and winding pathways framed by evergreens. A dedicated kitchen garden will be restored to full productivity after November, with eight raised beds (including a rhubarb section) and a plan to supply fresh produce to the main house. Adjacent is a fruit cage with strawberries and other soft fruits. There is also an ancient orchard, a wildflower meadow, a tranquil Koi Pond, 1 acre of paddocks, a stable block with chickens, and a tennis court. The garden is maintained in a mostly organic manner, with selective weed control on gravel pathways.
Responsibilities
* Manage all aspects of garden care across the grounds to a high horticultural standard.
* Plan and execute seasonal tasks independently; work hands-on and take initiative.
* Weeding, pruning, mulching, lawn care, planting, pest and disease control, and general upkeep.
* Experience with garden machinery and basic maintenance of tools and equipment.
* Feed the chickens daily and care for the two cats when the owners are away.
Qualifications and profile
* Recognition horticultural qualification and/or experience in a similar private garden setting.
* Broad plant knowledge, confidence in managing diverse garden environments, and genuine passion for gardening.
* Ability to work alone with excellent attention to detail and clear communication with the property owners.
Accommodation and conditions
Accommodation can be provided in the same village in a well-presented two-bedroom cottage with a small garden and dedicated parking. Council tax and utility bills are the responsibility of the employee. The accommodation is suitable for a partner, children, and pets. A full driving licence and access to a vehicle are essential due to the rural location.
Salary and location
Salary: £30,000 – £36,000
Location: Wetherby, Yorkshire
Job reference
Job No: EC69283
How to apply
If this vacancy is of interest, please click “Apply for job” below or contact Sara Yassin on 01233 733510 or email info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk. To apply, you will need a Candidate Registration. For information on how your personal data is used, please view the privacy policy. Thank you for your interest in this Sole Gardener vacancy.
Note
Due to the high volume of applications, we may not respond to every applicant. If you have not heard from us within 14 days, your application is considered unsuccessful.
Affiliations
* Professional Gardeners’ Guild
* RHS
* WFGA – offering the WRAGs Scheme
* Arne Maynard Garden Design
* Historic Houses
* HBG Training Programme
Website: www.englishcountrygardeners.co.uk
Tag: Sole Gardener, Wetherby
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