How to become a horticulturist

Turn your love of plants into a career with horticulture.

Horticulture; (definition) the science and art of growing fruits, vegetables, flowers, or ornamental plants

If you’re someone who is happiest in the open and who loves nothing more than to be among greenery and wildlife, you may be interested to know that your love of flora and fauna could form the basis of a fantastic, rewarding career. Horticulture – the science and art of garden cultivation – offers a wide variety of employment opportunities and, with green issues very much in the public consciousness, it’s currently an expanding area that’s keen to attract new talent.

Trainee horticulturist Jenny Allwood-Booker says it’s essential for a new generation to get involved: ‘Plants are massively important. They make oxygen for us to breathe, food for us to eat, fibres to be made into clothes, and so much more.’ And Jenny says there are big advantages to spending so much time outdoors. ‘I watch things change through the seasons. Plus, there are a wide range of different jobs which I get to take part in every day. I’m able to enjoy a physical, healthy lifestyle and work with many friendly people.’

Whether you’re naturally green-thumbed or have yet to sow a single seed, experts agree that a passion for plants is all that’s needed to start. Chances are, if you have that spark, there’ll be a perfect role for you. From landscape designers to botanists, and garden historians to plant breeders, the scope is enormous. Everyone involved in horticulture is contributing in some way to the conservation and understanding of the environment, helping to ensure that it can be protected for current and future generations.

Places of employment can be as varied as the roles available – you don’t necessarily have to work in a formal garden setting, there are plenty of sites that require careful management that you wouldn’t perhaps think of initially. In fact, if you’ve ever admired or used a green space, it’s very likely that there’s a horticulturist (or several) looking after it. Even cemeteries and churchyards are maintained by teams of gardeners, allowing them to become much-needed havens for wildlife in busy towns and cities. All of these places help people as much as people help them. So there you have it. Horticulture really is an all-encompassing subject – one that’s crucial for environmental reasons, allows you to carve out a niche that meets your talents and that also has a positive effect on wellbeing. So whether it becomes your life’s work, or just a wonderful way to spend a weekend, now’s the time to get outdoors and get involved.

HOW TO START A CAREER IN HORTICULTURE

If a career in horticulture interests you, here’s what you can do to learn more.

Look into volunteering opportunities

A number of horticultural organisations will be in need of volunteers – both for one-off and ongoing tasks. By volunteering your time, the organisation will gain an extra pair of hands and you’ll gain valuable experience at the same time. Head to Junior Landcare to find a landcare group or research botanic gardens, parks and sanctuaries close to where you live and see if they’re running volunteer programs.

Visit as many green spaces as you can

There are many gardens open to the public all over the country, including botanic gardens and public parks, as well as garden and flower festivals, all giving insights into different styles and ways of gardening. Keep your eyes peeled for charity open garden events near you or look online to see what’s happening in your area.

Do some research

Take a look at websites such as the Australian Society of Horticultural Science, Australian Institute of Horticulture Inc. or Sustainable Gardening Australia for information on upcoming events, volunteer programs as well as general information, tips and tricks. You can also research specific gardening venues, nurseries or horticulture courses in your community to start your gardening adventure close to home.


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