This position is located in the U.S. Botanic Garden (USBG), Horticulture Division, Gardens and Grounds Section. This Section is responsible for maintaining and developing the majority of the USBG's gardens and grounds, including Bartholdi Park, The National Garden and Conservatory surrounds. Under the supervision of a Gardener Supervisor, the incumbent works from project plans, master landscape designs and long-range propagation and landscape plans to make independent judgments within the framework of sound gardening practices.
Specific duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following: Performs various tasks in the care and maintenance of plants, shrubs, and trees which includes plant propagation, soil preparation, planting, watering, fertilizing, bed renovation, insect and disease control, mulching, pruning, thinning, staking, transplanting, trimming, integrated pest management, and lawn care. Measures and applies fertilizers and chemical control agents. Oversees and manages the growth, development, propagation, labeling, care and ongoing USBG investment in a specialized set of plants and ensures the plant quality, distribution, maintenance and information related to the plants.
Reproduces plants through cuttings, rooting, grafting, and layering processes; starts new plants in seed beds or cold-frames; and records the kind and number of plants started, the kind of fertilizer used and other pertinent information.
Plans and implements appropriate refurbishment of gardens including digging, dividing, and rearranging of plants to deal with invasive plants and keep gardens properly maintained. Prunes plants in artistic ways to enhance both plant health and garden experience.
Designs and plans attractive plant displays for year round interest. Accessions plants, monitors and handles proper labeling of plants for the public, and creates accurate interpretation of plants and gardens.
Provides information to the public about the plant collections through classes, workshops and/or tours. As required, may also direct and coordinate a small group of staff and/or volunteers and summer employees in the performance of plant maintenance and care projects.
Participates in planning and implementing USBG exhibits and special events. Related tasks include planting in terrace boxes; moving, carrying and arranging potted flowers, equipment, and materials, etc. Installs aesthetic and/or educational displays related to the plants or plant families maintained within the Division which includes display layout and design, selection and labeling of plants, maintenance and rotation of plants in the exhibit.
Maintains an Integrated Pest Management program within the assigned area. Monitors pest populations and life cycles; determines threshold level and applies appropriate physical, cultural and biological or chemical controls.
Recognizes and controls infrequent plant diseases, cold damage and mineral deficiencies. Records corrective procedures used, incorporating IPM and any other new processes applied to achieve desired results.
Maintains the upkeep of assigned area by removing trash and debris. Ensures that pots, plants, and gardens are free of weeds and weed problems.
During inclement weather, removes snow and ice from sidewalks and steps. Applies salt, sand and melting agents to clear area and provide safe conditions.