The Botanical Assistant will be working with Orchids, Bromeliads and general greenery and is responsible for performing daily care and maintenance tasks under the guidance of our Botanical Supervisor and Botanical Manager. This role requires a high degree of attention to detail and a passion for plant care, particularly for the specific needs of our different Orchids, Bromeliads, Spekboom species and general greenery.

Key responsibilities

• Plant care: Perform daily watering, fertilizing, and pruning of various Orchids, Bromeliads and general greenery species according to established schedules and protocols.
• Pest and disease management: Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests or disease and apply appropriate treatments under supervision, including eco-friendly and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques.
• Seasonal work: Performing duties such as seasonal clean-up, leaf removal, and planting for different seasons.
• Irrigation: Installing, monitoring, and repairing manual irrigation systems, when required. 
• Environmental control: Monitor and adjust climate control systems, including temperature, humidity, and ventilation, to maintain optimal growing conditions for the Botanicals.
• Tool and equipment maintenance: Clean and service gardening tools, irrigation lines, and other equipment to ensure smooth operations.
• Plant selection for rotation:  Assist with plant selection, cleaning and staking of plants, following specific procedures for each plant species. Prepare packing for transportation.
• Propagation and repotting: Assist with the propagation of new Spekboom and general greenery plants through methods such as division. Repot mature plants as needed, following specific procedures for each species.
• Greenhouse maintenance: Ensure the cleanliness and organization of the greenhouses and work room. This includes general maintenance to the structures, sweeping, cleaning work areas, and sanitising pots and tools.
• Groundskeeping: Keeping all areas, including walkways, clear of debris, litter, and weeds.
• Equipment management: Operating, maintaining, and repairing gardening tools and equipment.

Qualifications and skills

• Experience: Previous experience in a nursery, greenhouse, or horticultural setting is preferred. Knowledge of orchid-specific and bromeliads-specific care is a strong advantage.
• Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Knowledge: Basic understanding of plant anatomy, propagation, and treatment of common pests and diseases
• Physical requirements: Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, such as standing for long periods, bending, crouching, and lifting objects up to 40 kg per crate and or tray.
• Work environment: Comfort working in a greenhouse environment, which can be warm and humid. May require working outdoors in different weather conditions.
• Personal attributes: Strong attention to detail, excellent time management, and the ability to follow instructions precisely. Must be reliable, punctual, and able to work well within the team.
• Schedule: Willingness to work weekends during peak growing seasons may be required.