Over the many years we have been sourcing craft and head gardeners for public and private estates across Ireland we have learned and want to share with you the following:
To be an efficient craft gardener for a private or public estate in Ireland, you’ll need a refined set of skills that blend horticultural expertise, estate management, and client relations. Here’s what’s essential:
1. Advanced Horticultural Knowledge
- Expertise in managing large formal and informal gardens
- Specialist plant care, including rare and heritage species
- Tree and woodland management (pruning, preservation, pest control)
- Expert pruning techniques for topiary, fruit trees, and ornamentals
- Lawn management, including aeration, scarification, and feeding
- Soil health management and composting
2. Estate Garden Maintenance & Landscaping
- Seasonal garden planning and plant rotations
- Knowledge of walled gardens, kitchen gardens, and glasshouses
- Water management (ponds, lakes, irrigation systems)
- Hard and soft landscaping, including pathways, patios, and fencing
- Knowledge of historical garden restoration techniques
3. Machinery & Equipment Handling
- Safe operation of mowers, strimmers, hedge trimmers, chainsaws, etc.
- Basic machinery maintenance and repair skills
- Use of organic and sustainable pest/disease control methods
4. Sustainability & Ecological Awareness
- Organic and regenerative gardening techniques
- Wildlife-friendly planting and habitat creation
- Knowledge of native Irish plants and biodiversity conservation
- Managing composting systems and reducing garden waste
5. Estate & Staff Management
- Supervising garden assistants or seasonal workers
- Coordinating with estate managers, household staff, and contractors
- Project management for garden improvements and renovations
6. Client & Visitor Interaction
- Understanding and executing the estate owner’s vision
- High attention to aesthetics and design continuity
- Ability to give tours or educate guests on garden features
- Discretion and professionalism in a private setting
7. Business & Administrative Skills
- Budgeting and cost management for garden supplies and projects
- Keeping records of plant care schedules and seasonal tasks
- Sourcing and liaising with nurseries and suppliers
To find a Craft Gardener for your private or public estate, go to Horticulture.Jobs
