Ian Black

Ian Black is the Supervisor of Horticulture for the Yurong and Palace Precinct, which includes the Rose Garden at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. 

His formal education includes an Advanced Certificate in Urban Horticulture, an Associate Diploma in Park Management and a Level 5 Certificate in Arboriculture. These qualifications reflect Ian's commitment to professional growth and his ability to integrate ecological principles into the management of botanical collections.

His extensive responsibilities include; planning and executing annual plantings, researching and selecting plants, managing soil health, pest and disease control, and ensuring efficient irrigation systems across diverse areas like Rose, Trials, Southern African, Oriental, and Tropical Native Border collections.

Ian's day begins early with planning and preparation for horticultural staff for the day and week ahead, answering phone calls and emails, ordering stock, meetings with management, staff and contractors, organising work supervision for volunteers, and providing guidance and motivation for the horticultural team. His leadership emphasises safety, effective resource allocation, and fostering a motivated team environment.

What Ian finds most rewarding about his role is the opportunity to contribute to the preservation and enhancement of the Garden’s plant collections, while working in a picturesque setting. His passion for horticultural and arboriculture sciences drives his continuous learning in the field. His favourite plants reflect the varied collections he works with, encompassing native species, Cycas and Encephalartos, and a range of tropical, oriental, and rose varieties.

Outside of work, Ian enjoys activities that connect him with nature, such as fishing, surfing, birdwatching, and bushwalking. His career path was influenced by a lifelong love for the outdoors, particularly coastal environments, from which he draws inspiration and relaxation.

With his deep knowledge and strong leadership, Ian plays an important role in maintaining the Garden’s reputation as a hub for education and environmental stewardship.