Interview with James Peary: Head Gardener
We’re thrilled to share the news of James Peary’s promotion to Head Gardener. Since joining us in July 2023, James has demonstrated exceptional dedication and work ethic, earning this well-deserved recognition. His commitment to maintaining the grounds and supporting his team’s growth has been commendable. We recently had the chance to sit down with James and delve into his journey and experiences as a gardener.
Hi James, Congratulations on your promotion, how are you feeling about it?
Hi, thanks for having me. Really good thank you! It’s really nice to be recognised and have my own team that I can train, look after and get things looking sharp all year round! I like that I’m responsible and accountable for the grounds, it shows how much trust the Bejerano family has put in me to deliver. My main vision is to make the gardens at Sopwell so good that it’s another reason why people want to visit.
Can you tell us more about your career background?
I previously worked for a garden maintenance company in St Albans. The company started with 1 old van and 2 staff members with 0 check-a-trade reviews when I left, they had a fleet of 9 brand new vans, a tipper, and 10 staff members. I’m just glad I can bring my high standards to Sopwell; who have welcomed me in with open arms and made me feel valued. That means the world to me to be honest.
How are the grounds looking going into the warmer months?
This spring, the grounds are filled with Daffodils, Snowdrops, and Tulips, creating a vibrant burst of colour that has cheered everyone up. As we wait for the summer months, we are looking forward to planting 700 Busy Lizzies which will not only make the grounds look full of life but will also be a showstopper and light the place up. Of course, not forgetting our timeless Hydrangeas that are ready and waiting to bloom.
What are you most looking forward to in the upcoming months?
I’m looking forward to having customers and staff members out in the gardens enjoying the gardens as much as we do create them. It brings me so much joy, to see people enjoying the gardens, relaxing on a bench, going for a walk around the grounds, laughing and smiling with each other. It signifies that our work as gardeners has been successful, providing a well-kept, charming, and pleasurable environment for people to enjoy life’s moments. We take pride in creating such a space!
What does a typical day look like for you?
Extremely busy, but extremely rewarding. I set high expectations for the team, and they consistently rise to the challenge. Our routine involves maintaining essential areas like the Spa Garden, Mews, C&B, and the entrance, as well as seasonal tasks like jet washing and spring preparations keep us on our toes. From daily chores like litter picking and indoor plant watering to weekly activities like our dedicated grass-cutting day, where we manage our expansive two-acre lawns, we’re constantly juggling tasks to ensure that everything is running smoothly.
Do you have any advice for someone who wants to start in the gardening industry?
Get happy with working in the rain! Change your mindset. Be strong in adverse weather because you won’t make any progress in a garden if you only garden on sunny days. Don’t let a drizzle or light rain ruin your mood, or stop your gardening. instead… Think of all the progress you’re making in the garden. There’s a famous quote that says: “If you only travelled on sunny days, you wouldn’t get anywhere” I’m a big believer in that and always try to cheer people up and cheer them on in light rain and drizzles. Be strong, keep going, and make progress!
Do you have any tips for people at home during the summer months with their own gardens?
Between now and May is the perfect time to scarify your lawn! Buy a strong metal leaf rake and rake the grass vigorously to remove thatch and moss, this allows nutrients, air, and water to reach the roots of the grass giving you a healthier thicker greener lawn!
Fancy a career in hospitality? Find out more on how you can join our team HERE