At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a small team to maintain and enhance a stunning historic garden.
- Company: Join a beautiful estate near Maidstone, Kent, with a rich horticultural heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, accommodation provided, and a chance to work in a picturesque setting.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic role with excellent career growth opportunities in a stunning environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on a diverse garden while enjoying a vibrant outdoor lifestyle.
- Qualifications: Horticultural qualifications or experience as a Senior Gardener preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Overview
An experienced and knowledgeable Head Gardener is sought to lead the maintenance, development, and seasonal planning of a diverse and historic private garden near Maidstone, Kent. The successful candidate will head a small team of two gardeners and will be responsible for the ongoing care and enhancement of a rich range of garden areas with various horticultural features.
Set within the grounds of a stunning Manor House, this 10-acre garden comprises a series of diverse areas, including a formal Walnut Tree Lawn, a woodland-style shade garden leading to a Rose Garden centered around a 300-year-old lime tree, an extensive gravel terrace with rockery plants and dwarf bulbs, a daffodil meadow connecting to the naturalistic Glen Garden with a stream, shade-loving perennials and a bamboo grove, a Sunken Pond Garden with spring-fed water features, expansive island beds, and a herbaceous border with seasonal interest. The garden is open to the public via the National Garden Scheme and serves as a wedding venue.
Responsibilities
- Take full responsibility for day-to-day management and seasonal direction of the garden, ensuring the highest horticultural standards across all areas.
- Work hands-on and lead a small team, planning and prioritising tasks in collaboration with the estate owners to reflect their vision.
Qualifications & Experience
- Ideal candidates will hold academic horticultural qualifications and/or experience as a Senior Gardener on private estates.
- Good horticultural knowledge, physical fitness, and the ability to operate and maintain basic garden machinery safely.
- Chainsaw and chemical spray certificates would be beneficial.
Accommodation, Hours & Start Date
A 2-bedroom property is available for candidates seeking accommodation with council tax covered by the employer. The property is located in the garden and extends over three floors: open plan ground floor, bedroom and bathroom on the first floor, and a large open room on the second floor.
Working hours are 8 am to 4 pm, Monday to Friday, with the vacancy starting from the first week of January 2026. References will be required at offer stage.
Salary & Location
Salary: £35,000 – £40,000 DOE
Location: Maidstone, Kent
Application Details
Job No: EC69658
If this Head Gardener vacancy is of interest, please apply below or email Sara Yassin on info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk or call to speak to Sara on 01233 733510. To apply for these roles you will need a Candidate Registration. To find out how your personal data is used while using our work finding services please view our privacy policy.
Thank you for your interest in this Head Gardener vacancy. Due to the high volume of applications, it is not possible to respond to everyone. Unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this vacancy has been unsuccessful.
Affiliations
- Professional Gardeners’ Guild
- RHS
- WFGA – offering the WRAGs Scheme
- Arne Maynard Garden Design
- Historic Houses
- HBG Training Programme
Tagged as: head gardener
Head Gardener in Maidstone employer: ECG Limited
Join a prestigious estate as the Head Gardener, where you will lead a dedicated team in nurturing a historic 10-acre garden that captivates visitors and serves as a wedding venue. Enjoy a supportive work culture that values horticultural excellence, with opportunities for professional growth and development, all while living in a charming two-bedroom property on-site. Located in the picturesque Maidstone, Kent, this role offers a unique blend of meaningful work and a beautiful environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Gardener in Maidstone
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the garden! Before your interview, take some time to research the specific horticultural features mentioned in the job description. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect with the estate owners during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your hands-on skills! Be ready to discuss your practical experience in managing gardens, especially in leading a team. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles to demonstrate your leadership abilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow gardeners or professionals in the industry. They might have insights or even connections that could help you land this role. Plus, it’s always good to have a few friendly faces in the gardening community!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to submit your application. Plus, it shows you're serious about the position. Don’t forget to follow up after applying; a quick email can keep you on their radar!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Gardener in Maidstone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Gardening:When writing your application, let your love for horticulture shine through! Share specific experiences that highlight your knowledge and enthusiasm for maintaining diverse garden areas. We want to see how you connect with nature and the joy it brings you.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Highlight relevant qualifications and experiences that align with the responsibilities of a Head Gardener. We’re looking for someone who can lead a team and manage a beautiful garden, so make that clear!
Be Clear About Your Experience:Don’t hold back on detailing your previous roles in gardening or horticulture. Mention any leadership experience, especially if you've managed a team before. We want to know how you’ve tackled challenges and what you’ve achieved in your past positions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows us you’re keen and ready to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at ECG Limited
✨Know Your Plants
Brush up on your horticultural knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific plants, their care, and how they fit into the diverse areas of the garden. This shows your passion and expertise, which is crucial for a Head Gardener role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since you'll be leading a small team, prepare examples of how you've successfully managed or collaborated with others in previous roles. Highlight your ability to plan and prioritise tasks effectively, as this will resonate well with the estate owners.
✨Understand the Vision
Research the garden's history and current features. Familiarise yourself with the estate owners' vision for the garden and think about how you can contribute to that. Being able to articulate your ideas during the interview will set you apart.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions about your hands-on experience with garden machinery and maintenance. Be prepared to discuss any relevant certifications you hold, like chainsaw or chemical spray certificates, as these could give you an edge in the selection process.
