

Private estate
Experienced gardener required for a wide variety of duties at beautiful private estate.
An opportunity has arisen for a passionate qualified gardener in Tralee, Ireland.
The gardens are circa 50 acres. Mild winters are a microclimatic feature, but with salt winds in many areas. The garden is run organically as much as possible, but is not certified. The current staff maintain a wide variety; House flowers and plants, outdoor containers, a cut flower garden, tunnels and glass houses, a Vegetable garden, Wild flower Meadows, several formal and walled gardens, in classic Oriental, French and Italian styles including topiary and several water features and ponds, extensive wildflower areas, herbaceous borders, trees and hedges. As usual there are also lawns to maintain, weeding, mulching and planting of borders and shrubberies. There are currently 4 garden staff in total, 5 with the new gardener. You will report directly to the Head gardener and liaise with the estate manager on overlapping tasks. Currently we mow lawns every 2 weeks in the growing season and try to extend the unmown season. We try to rejuvenate a few areas every year with hedging, perennials and new trees. The whole year is geared to having good results for the summer and this is reflected in the plantings, however some year round interest is needed and included.
Duties and responsibilities of the role:
- Plan and liaise with the Head gardener, and other gardeners to ensure smooth operation and maintenance of the garden.
- Plant and cultivate a wide variety of flowers, shrubs, trees, and other plants to enhance the beauty and diversity of the garden or landscape.
- Prepare soil beds and maintain the soil’s quality through activities like composting, mulching, and fertilization.
- Monitor watering needs and ensure plants receive the appropriate amount of water through hand-watering or irrigation systems.
- Prune trees, shrubs, and bushes to maintain their shape, encourage healthy growth, and remove dead or diseased branches.
- Regularly remove weeds from garden beds and apply appropriate pest control measures to protect plants from pests and diseases.
- Mow, edge, and maintain lawns to keep them neat and well-manicured.
- Perform routine garden maintenance tasks, including raking, leaf blowing, and cleaning garden areas.
- Maintain gardening tools and equipment in good working condition, performing routine checks and repairs as needed.
- Identify and differentiate between various plants, flowers, and trees, and possess an understanding of their specific care requirements.
- Follow safety guidelines while using gardening tools and equipment, ensuring the safety of oneself and others in the garden.
Requirements for the role:
- Previous experience in gardening.
- Previous experience using horticultural machinery, such as tractors lawnmowers, strimmers and hedge trimmers.
- The ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting, digging, bending, and standing for extended periods.
- Good knowledge of plants, gardening techniques, and landscaping principles.
- Strong attention to detail to maintain the garden’s aesthetics and overall health.
- The ability to work well as part of a team or independently, depending on the scope of the gardening project.
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, adapting to seasonal demands and gardening requirements.
- Ability to problem solve.
Candidate must have:
- A positive, “can do” attitude.
- A strong interest in sustainability/ organic and ecological practice.
- A good work ethic.
- A strong ability to get on with team mates and managers.
- An ability to problem solve, prioritize and be accountable.
- An interest in personal and professional development.
The applicant should have:
- At least 3 years gardening experience.
- Good gardening and horticulture knowledge.
- An interest in wildlife-friendly and organic garden practices.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Attention to detail.
The package
This is a full-time position with attractive remuneration based on experience after a probationary period.
Applications
Contact James on +353 838 280 195 or email: jamesmbermingham@gmail.com