A horticulturalist specializes in plants.
Horticulture is the art and science of growing fruits, vegetables, flowers and ornamental plants like trees and shrubs. It is a branch of agriculture that's more focused on home or small-scale gardening than on large-scale agricultural farming, although there is some overlap between the two. Horticulturists often work with the public. Successful horticulturists have a passion for plants, like working with the public and possess both scientific and artistic skills.
What a Horticulturist Does
Some horticulturists work in garden centers.
From the Latin hortus, meaning garden, and cultura, meaning culture, horticulture translates into garden culture, which sums up horticulturists' duties. They focus on the growing and maintenance of plants rather than studying the science and chemistry of plants like a botanist does. Duties often include plant propagation, disease identification and control, education of consumers and students, landscape design and gardening and landscape maintenance.
Education
Plant inspection is important.
A college degree is not necessary to be a horticulturist, but many firms do require at least an associate degree in horticulture for advancement into supervisory or management positions. Most universities that have an agriculture department offer at least some horticulture programs. In some community colleges, horticulture classes are offered by the biology department.
If you do not wish to get a degree in horticulture but still want to work in the field, consider the certification programs offered by most states. You will still need to take some horticulture classes before you can apply, but the education requirements are less than for a degree.
If you are a high school student considering horticulture as a career, be sure to take math and science classes, since these are areas that will help with your plant studies.
Specializations
Floriculturists specialize in flower production.
People who specialize in the growth and use of flowers are called floriculturists. Horticulture therapists develop gardening activities and methods that benefit seniors and disabled persons. Some horticulturists specialize in grass care and work for lawn care companies, sports facilities and golf courses. And some horticulturists restrict their work to ornamental horticulture, focusing solely on plants grown for their decorative landscape uses. Arborists are tree experts.
Certifications
Certification helps the public trust your expertise.
Most states offer certification programs. A college degree is not required. Being certified usually involves passing a written test and verification of work and educational history. Being certified assures the public that you are competent in your field, adhere to a code of ethics and that you keep up-to-date on what's new in horticulture.
Besides offering a general horticulture certification program, some states offer specialized certifications in pest and disease management, composting and other ecological aspects of gardening, and tree culture.
Job Opportunities
Landscapers design beautiful gardens.
Horticulturists work in the gardening industry, in education and for the government. In garden centers, horticulturists work in plant production, as buyers and managers, as garden designers and in customer service. Some horticulturists are plant breeders, looking for new and improved varieties of plants that can benefit consumers. Landscape designers use their creativity to design home flower gardens, golf courses and landscaping for huge business developments. The government employs horticulturists as crop inspectors, plant breeders and educators. Major ballparks and golf courses employ horticulturists who specialize in lawn care to keep the grass in perfect condition. And some horticulturists are also educators, teaching at the college level or offering gardening classes at a neighborhood community center.
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