Job Description

We are looking for a gardener to join our enthusiastic and hardworking team who care for the extensive gardens that surround Picton Castle. Run by a charitable trust, we are an RHS Partner Garden that is a open to the public all year round.

Picton Castle dates to the 14th century and is surrounded by 50-acres of gardens hosting a wide variety of plants. A recently restored Georgian Walled Garden is a key feature filled with annual display beds, ornamental pond, herbaceous plantings and Mediterranean bed. Attached to the Walled Garden is a newly created educational area with a traditional glasshouse and wildlife demonstration garden. Within the walls of the old potting shed is an indoor Fernery, with ferns from around the world. Other key areas of the garden include Peach House Gardens and woodland which have vast herbaceous beds and collections of hydrangeas and ferns. As well as the Jungle Garden with its collection of leafy plants.

The Woodland Garden of around 30 acres has extensive plantings of Picton bred Rhododendrons, many species of Conifers and Myrtaceae including our Myrtle Avenue. All planted around native trees like our ancient oaks.

What it is like to work here

You will be joining our friendly, helpful team. Reporting to the Head and Assistant Head Gardeners, you will be working alongside two other full-time gardeners. You will be supported in your role to work with an enthusiastic small team of volunteers (two days per week) and a HBGTP trainee. You will be required to work occasional weekends and bank holidays on a rota basis (equivalent to one weekend in eight).

What you'll be doing

You'll be responsible for the maintenance of the Walled Garden, Greenhouse and Nursery that raises annuals and plants for the garden and serves as an overwintering facility for plants. Planning work for volunteers and working alongside to guide them. You will also work in other ornamental areas around the garden. You will be assisted and supported in all these activities as required. You will be occasionally expected to take part in garden development projects in other parts of the garden.

Skills and Experience

Trained to level 2 Horticulture or with equivalent work experience, with reasonable plant knowledge. A love of gardening and working outdoors. Self-motivated and with a strong work ethic and a wish to maintain high standards. Confident working within a team or on your own, leading volunteers and engaging with the public in a polite and helpful manner. Good communication skills A willingness to use garden machinery as required to fulfill your role. Training supplied if required. Assist other garden team members in their roles. Valid driving license and access to own transport is essential, due to our rural location.
We are a supportive employer, with generous annual leave and employment rights. We promote personal development and will provide training where possible related to your role. We are an equal opportunities employer.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 24,600.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 10/02/2026