Gardener

Job Description

Summary This role is predominantly based at Coleton Fishacre where you will spend most of your time. As part of the English Riviera portfolio, there will be a requirement to work at the other outdoor locations within the portfolio to support outdoor teams as needrequires.This is a key role in the day-to-day maintenance and development of the garden, taking delegated responsibility for aspects of the work, delivering the highest standards of horticulture, conservation, and visitor experience.Interview date 20th July What its like to work here Coleton Fishacre, an RHS partner garden, is a fine example of the Arts and Crafts design period. Formal herbaceous borders dominate the upper garden. As you venture further into the garden, paths weave through glades past tranquil ponds. Many of the rareand tender plants within the collection originate from the Mediterranean, South Africa and New Zealand, thriving in this unique and sheltered location on the south Devon coast.This is a garden for those passionate about plants and horticulture. Featuring herbaceous borders, woodland, wildflower meadows and glades surrounded by lush exotic planting, Coleton Fishacre offers everything a horticulturist could wish for.Forming part of the English Riviera portfolio, youll have the opportunity to work at other locations nearby such as Greenway, Compton Castle or outdoor locations cared for by our rangers.Coleton Fishacre is located just outside Torbay and due to our location, your own transport is essential. What youll be doing As a hands-on Gardener, youll assist in making sure that the gardens are maintained to a high standard. Youll be passionate and enthused and knowledgeable about the varied plants within the garden. This role will include a range of practical horticulturaltasks to develop, enhance and conserve the garden and contribute to the delivery of projects. Youll be helping with hard and soft landscaping and general maintenance of the garden, such as mulching, pruning, leaf clearing and weeding. Youll support withthe planting and maintenance of trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants. Youll be helping to cut the hedges and mow our fine lawns. Youll also take ownership of specific areas of the garden ensuring the highest standards are maintained and healthy plants are availablefor our visitors to enjoy.Youll also support garden volunteers and help them to make the most of their time here. Youll be expected to interact with the public on a daily basis, answering the many questions, or help out with gardening workshops, tours and helping set up eventswhen needed.Please also read the full role profile attached to this advert Who were looking for

• Practical experience as a professional gardener/horticulturalist or ranger with garden interests

• RHS Level 2 or equivalent

• Proven experience of working with and leading volunteer groups

• Experience with garden machinery such as tractors, trailers, lawn mowers, brush cutters, chainsaws etc

• Skilled in pruning climbers, ornamental shrubs, fruit trees etc to a high standard

• Good knowledge of plants and plant husbandry, especially woody plants

• Ability to work well as a team and self-motivated when working alone

• Proven experience of working with and engaging with the public

Please note the the garden is steep and physically demandingyou must be comfortable working on slopes

The package Benefits for working at the National Trust:

• Flexible working whenever possible

• Free parking at most locations

• Discounts in high street stores, cinemas, National Trust properties and cafes.

• Free entry to our properties for you, a guest and your children (under 18)

• Generous annual leave

• Subsidised health cash plan

• Free 24-hour support service

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary

• Training & Development tailored to you

• Up to 5 days of paid volunteering for you.

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.