Sole Gardener in Oxford

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and proactive Sole Gardener to take ownership of the private garden of a Grade II listed property in Southeast Oxford. The successful candidate will work closely with the owners to develop and maintain a high-quality garden that provides year-round interest, colour, texture, and scent. The gardens extend to approximately 1.5 acres surrounding the main house.

The property is approached by a gravel driveway bordered by laurel and privet hedging, along with a mix of trees and shrubs, and features a recently added grass turning circle in front of the property. To the front of the house, there are expansive lawns bordered by herbaceous planting, interspersed with mature specimen trees including cedar and horse chestnut. A large central border sits within the lawn, for which the owners are considering an Oriental-style influence and would welcome creative input from the new Gardener.

Throughout the garden, there are a variety of established planting areas and features, including box hedging and smaller flower beds running along the house. To the rear of the property lies a more formal garden, incorporating structured flower borders including a rose bed, box parterre garden, lawns, and various areas offering a strong framework for refined and considered planting as well as the potential to create an herb garden in the courtyard. The property also includes a tennis court and an indoor swimming pool adjacent to the house, as well as several seating and relaxation areas where the owners are keen to enhance planting to provide year-round interest, colour, and scent.

The Sole Gardener will be hands-on and responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and care of all garden areas, including the ongoing development and implementation of planting schemes designed to provide year-round interest. Working closely with the lady of the house, the role involves advising on plant selection and placement, including proposals for a central border with an Oriental-style theme, as well as maintaining lawns, hedges, herbaceous borders, the parterre garden, and seating areas to a consistently high standard. Plant health is closely monitored, with pests and diseases managed using minimal chemical intervention wherever possible.

The position also requires liaising with external contractors such as tree surgeons for large scale and specialist works, sourcing and purchasing appropriate tools, machinery, and equipment, and contributing to the planning and delivery of future garden projects, and the development of effective tool storage and workshop solutions. Throughout all activities, high standards of presentation are maintained, with careful consideration given to ensuring the gardens remain safe for children and pets at all times.

The successful candidate will have proven experience working as a Sole Gardener or Senior Gardener on a private estate, with strong plant knowledge and a high level of horticultural expertise. A creative approach to planting and garden design is essential, alongside the ability to work independently, take ownership of the role, and maintain consistently high standards. Good communication skills and a collaborative working style are required to work effectively with others and external contractors. PA1/PA6 spraying certificates are desirable, and a clean driving licence is preferred. The candidate must also be willing to undergo an Enhanced DBS check and any additional security screening as required.

This is a full-time hands-on role that would suit a Gardener with horticultural knowledge, initiative, and excellent communication looking to take full responsibility for the garden’s care, development, and day-to-day management. The working week is Monday to Friday with working hours adjusted seasonally to meet the needs of the garden.

SALARY: Circa £40,000 depending on experience

LOCATION: Southeast of Oxford