Horticulturalist - Landscape Design & Management

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 420,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Prestigious projects

Team collaboration

Learning & development

Positive environment

Career growth

Vehicle allowance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a talented Horticulturalist for a premier landscape architecture and garden design firm based in Sandton, Gauteng. You will manage cultivation, care, and diverse plant collections for high-end projects, advising on plant selection, soil health, and pest control.

Ideal candidates will have a Diploma/Degree in Horticulture and at least 4 years’ professional experience, with a strong design eye and commitment to sustainable practices.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Degree in Horticulture or related field.
• Minimum 4 years of practical horticulture experience.
• Knowledge of Gauteng climate plant species.
• Experience diagnosing plant diseases and pests.
• Understanding of soil science and plant nutrition.
• Willingness to work outdoors in variable weather; valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planting, care and maintenance of diverse plant species in designed landscapes.
• Develop and implement plant care programs including watering, fertilization, pruning and pest management.
• Advise landscape architects and clients on plant selections based on site conditions and goals.
• Conduct regular site inspections to monitor plant health and advise actions.
• Manage soil health and nutrient levels for optimal growth.
• Promote sustainable horticultural practices, including water conservation and organic pest control.
• Source and procure high-quality plants and horticultural supplies.
• Supervise and train junior staff and gardening crews.
• Maintain detailed records of plant performance and treatments.
• Stay updated on horticultural trends and best practices.

Skills

Horticulture knowledge

Plant identification

Pest management

Communication skills

Education

Diploma or Degree in Horticulture, Botany, Landscape Management, or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier landscape architecture and garden design firm based in **Sandton, Gauteng**, is seeking a talented and passionate Horticulturalist. This role is responsible for the cultivation, care, and management of diverse plant collections for high-end residential and commercial landscape projects. You will play a key role in advising on plant selection, soil preparation, pest and disease management, and the long-term health and aesthetic appeal of landscaped spaces. The ideal candidate has a deep knowledge of horticulture, a keen eye for design, and a commitment to sustainable landscape practices. You will be an integral part of creating beautiful and functional green spaces in and around **Sandton**, contributing to the firm's reputation for excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the planting, care, and maintenance of a wide variety of plant species in designed landscapes.
• Develop and implement plant care programs, including watering schedules, fertilization, pruning, and pest/disease management strategies.
• Advise landscape architects and clients on appropriate plant selections based on site conditions, aesthetic goals, and environmental factors.
• Conduct regular site inspections to monitor plant health, identify issues, and recommend corrective actions.
• Manage soil health, ensuring proper amendments and nutrient levels for optimal plant growth.
• Implement and promote sustainable horticultural practices, including water conservation and organic pest control methods.
• Source and procure high-quality plants and horticultural supplies.
• Supervise and train junior horticultural staff and gardening crews.
• Maintain detailed records of plant performance, treatments applied, and maintenance activities.
• Stay up-to-date with horticultural trends, new plant varieties, and best practices in landscape management.

Requirements

• A Diploma or Degree in Horticulture, Botany, Landscape Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of practical experience in professional horticulture, landscape maintenance, or garden management.
• Extensive knowledge of plant identification, physiology, and cultivation requirements for a wide range of species suitable for the **Gauteng** climate.
• Experience in diagnosing and treating plant diseases and pest infestations.
• Understanding of soil science and plant nutrition.
• Familiarity with sustainable and organic gardening practices.
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills for client and team interaction.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Valid driver's license is required for site visits in and around **Sandton**.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience.
• Opportunity to work on high-profile landscape projects in a prestigious area.
• Collaborate with a team of talented designers and horticulturalists.
• Continuous learning and development in horticultural techniques.
• A positive and creative work environment.
• Potential for career growth within the company.
• Company vehicle or travel allowance for site visits.