Horticulturist

The Horticulture & Collections department seeks a Horticulturist who will use sound horticultural principles to enhance, maintain and improve outdoor gardens ensuring plants are grown and cared for under optimal conditions. Responsibilities will include leading the maintenance and planning of the core Natural Areas while performing other activities as required. The Horticulturist will participate in short and long-range planning activities guided by Holden Forests & Gardens’ (HF&G) strategic plan and assist in the setting of goals to accomplish those objectives.

We are seeking a professional who will take initiative in developing and implementing improvements by planning and executing scheduled garden tasks. The Horticulturist will share knowledge with colleagues and guests through tours, classes and social media and will work collaboratively with colleagues in other departments.

• Reports to the Director of Arboretum Horticulture
• Full-time, non-exempt position
• 40 hours a week guaranteed
  • Monday – Friday 7am – 3:30 pm

Key responsibilities of the
Horticulturist
include, but not limited to:

• Cares for and guides the maintenance of various woody and herbaceous plant materials within assigned core garden area
• Plans, leads, and oversees garden projects, including developing work plans for tasks such as soil preparation, planting, watering, fertilizing, bed renovation, mulching, staking, edging, thinning, and weed control
• Conducts soil assessment, provides fertilization and amelioration guidance
• Manages planting, pruning, and design of assigned garden area
• Maintains pesticide records in compliance with ODA requirements
• Identifies pests and diseases, applies treatments, and takes corrective action
• Manages day-to-day activities of Gardener(s), Seasonal Gardener(s), Intern(s) and, 1 or more Volunteers
• Operates tractor with bucket loader and fork attachments
• Inspects and maintains small equipment in safe operating condition, including sharpening and storage. Reports broken and damaged equipment when appropriate
• Engages with donors and Board members as requested
• Reviews and sets priorities based on shared criteria and discussions with supervisors.
• Identifies and implements sustainable horticulture and department practices.
• Assists with the design, installation and maintenance of interior and exterior exhibits associated with special shows and events.
• Assists Curator of Plant Collections with labeling plants on the grounds, specifically in areas of focus.
• Helps maintain a safe and productive working environment.
• Monitors and makes small repairs to above ground portion of assigned irrigation system.
• Ability to travel regionally and nationally as requested
• Performs other duties as required by supervisor.
• Positively interacts with guests, members, and the public to create a welcoming atmosphere
• Shares horticulture and gardening expertise with other professionals and laypersons through classes, workshops, public tours, educational displays, printed publications, participation in conferences and relevant organizational meetings.

• Degree in horticulture, landscaping, botany, perennial plant production, ecologically informed horticulture and/or related fields
• Significant practical horticulture experience in a garden of merit and deep plant knowledge will be considered in lieu of a degree.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in landscaping, garden maintenance or related field; previous work experience in public horticulture gardens a plus.
• Background in invasive species management, natural lands stewardship, and permaculture, preferred
• Broad range of plant knowledge including nomenclature, husbandry, pruning, and required cultural conditions
• Knowledge of plant taxonomy and ability to use a dichotomous key
• A passion for nature, plants, the environment, and the outdoors with interest in working outdoors year-round performing manual labor in all weather conditions
• Possess strong collaboration skills and openness for cross-departmental teamwork
• Work independently as well as on a team.
• Possess strong oral and written communication skills and proficiency with computer software:
  Microsoft 365 products, including…