De Morgenzon, a quality-focused wine estate in Stellenbosch, seeks to employ an experienced Horticulturist. The Horticulturist is responsible for the planning, development, and maintenance of a 5-hectare garden or landscaped estate. This role involves plant care, soil management, landscape improvement, pest control, irrigation oversight, and supervision of garden staff to ensure the garden remains healthy, attractive, and productive.
Key Responsibilities
- Garden Planning and Development
- Design and implement planting plans for trees, shrubs, flowers, and lawns.
- Select suitable plant species based on climate, soil conditions, and garden design.
- Develop seasonal and annual planting schedules aligned with the estate objectives
- Improve garden layout and landscape aesthetics.
- Plant Care and Maintenance
- Nursery management with the production of vegetables, herbs and cut flowers
- Ensure optimal germination, growth, and plant establishment
- Maintain and record stock, propagation and labelling of plants
- Monitor plant health and growth.
- Perform pruning, transplanting, fertilizing, and propagation.
- Maintain lawns, flower beds, trees, and ornamental plants.
- Ensure proper watering and irrigation practices.
- Soil and Irrigation Management
- Conduct soil testing and recommend soil improvement methods.
- Manage composting and organic matter.
- Monitor irrigation systems and ensure efficient water use.
- Pest and Disease Control
- Identify plant pests and diseases.
- Implement environmentally responsible pest management strategies.
- Apply pesticides and treatments when required.
- Staff Supervision and Leadership
- Supervise and train garden workers and grounds staff.
- Assign daily tasks and ensure work quality.
- Ensure safe use of gardening tools and machinery.
- Equipment and Resource Management
- Maintain gardening tools and equipment.
- Manage supplies such as fertilizers, seeds, and chemicals.
- Keep records of garden activities and plant inventory.
- Sustainability Practices
- Promote environmentally friendly gardening practices.
- Implement water conservation and organic gardening methods.
Skill Requirements
- Plant identification and care
- Landscape planning
- Irrigation and soil management
- Problem solving and attention to detail
- Strong leadership and communication skills
- Strong practical gardening expertise
- Technical proficiency with horticultural tools and machinery
- Excellent communication and administrative skills
- Physical endurance and ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Adaptable, resilient, and patient
- Entrepreneurial mindset with a proactive approach
- Genuine passion for nature and environmental excellence
- Improve the aesthetic appeal of the surrounding environment to complement existing architecture and ensure the longevity of the grounds.
- May be required to work some weekends or seasonal work depending on garden needs.
- Computer literacy (word, excel, power point)
- Fluent in English & Afrikaans (write & speak)
- Valid driver's license and Own transport
Qualifications
Diploma or Degree in Horticulture, Botany, Agriculture, or Landscape Management.
Experience managing large gardens or estates (3–5 years preferred).
Should you be interested in an opportunity to be a work with one of Stellenbosch’s most beautiful gardens, please submit your CV to tamzin@demorgenzon.com
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly. If you don't hear from us within two weeks of applying, you application can be deemed unsuccessful.