Head Gardener in Yelverton

Role overview

An opportunity has arisen for a Head Gardener to join Beden.

Who we are

Beden is a unique lifestyle community designed for inspired creatives and their families. Nestled in a stunning natural setting, it features three beautifully restored farmhouses surrounded by vibrant gardens and wild landscapes.

Shaped by centuries of traditional farming, the land has evolved into a rich mosaic of biodiverse habitats. Hidden in a serene river valley on the edge of Dartmoor, Beden offers a sense of seclusion while remaining just a 30-minute drive from Plymouth.

Our dedicated garden team is passionate about restoring and enhancing the estate’s countryside and gardens. We focus on organic, sustainable practices to grow fresh fruit and vegetables while nurturing the natural beauty of the land. This role will be primarily based within these gardens, contributing to their ongoing transformation.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the care, development, and presentation of all gardens and grounds across the estate, including ornamental areas, kitchen gardens, lawns, meadows, and surrounding landscapes
• Plan and deliver seasonal planting schemes and manage propagation of plants, shrubs, and trees
• Maintain and prune trees, shrubs, and ornamental plants to the highest horticultural standards
• Establish and manage lawns and wildflower meadows from seed or turf; apply organic and sustainable growing practices in line with the estate’s ecological values
• Manage fruit and vegetable production for the kitchen garden, including crop planning, rotation, and harvesting
• Lead, train, and coordinate the garden team, apprentices, and volunteers to achieve high standards of work
• Operate and maintain gardening machinery, including mowers, strimmers, hedge trimmers, and tractors with attachments
• Ensure all work is carried out safely in compliance with health and safety procedures, including risk assessments and equipment checks
• Deliver small landscaping projects, restoration work, and habitat improvement initiatives to enhance biodiversity
• Plan and schedule seasonal tasks and long-term garden development projects
• Manage supplies, order plants and materials, and work within allocated budgets where necessary
• Collaborate with other estate teams to ensure gardens are well-presented for residents, guests, and events

Essential Requirements

• Horticultural qualification at RHS Level 2 or equivalent experience
• Good knowledge of native and ornamental plants and their care
• Minimum one year of professional gardening experience
• Practical experience with plant propagation
• Ability to establish and maintain lawns and meadows from seed or turf
• Skilled in pruning trees and shrubs to a high horticultural standard
• Experience operating and maintaining gardening machinery, including mowers, strimmers, hedge trimmers, and other essential tools
• Competence with tractors, trailers, and attachments
• Full UK driving licence and access to own transport
• Willingness to work in all weather conditions
• Ability to follow instructions, use initiative, and work independently or as part of a team
• Good communication skills and fluency in English
• Physically fit and able to carry out the demands of the role
• Basic understanding of health and safety requirements and commitment to working safely

Benefits

• Health & Wellness Package
• BUPA 24/7 Counselling support
• Aviva Pension
• 28 days holiday per year, inclusive of bank holidays

Working Pattern: Monday – Friday, 8 am – 4:30 pm

Location: Heckwood Farm, PL20 6LG

Salary: £35K – £45K

Application Process

If you would like to apply for this role, please send us your CV and covering letter if desired.