
Learning to take care of plants is just one part of becoming a horticulturist.
Let’s go through what a horticulturist is, what the educational requirements of becoming a horticulturist are, and how to become a horticulturist.
What Does a Horticulturist Do?
A horticulturist does more than just taking care of plants at the public park. A horticulturist needs to understand the environment surrounding plants, how plants grow, and how to keep them healthy.
Horticulturists can work in national parks, in nurseries, at garden centers, or at the botanical gardens. Horticulture is a broad field, and there are no real limits to what you’ll be able to do. As long as you love the great outdoors, that is!
Getting an Education: Horticulturist Education Requirements
First, you need to get either a degree in horticulture or a related degree. You would take classes mostly in the sciences, such as chemistry and biology. There are both two- and four- year degrees offered in horticulture. Which degree is right for you will depend more on your education history and where you are in your life. But, either are a good basis for a career in horticulture.
If possible, you should try to get an internship in the industry while you’re still in school. That way, you can gain as much experience as possible. More experience will give you a head start in the field when you graduate.
If you choose, you can also do a graduate degree in horticulture. You can certainly work in horticulture without a Master’s or PHD. However, if you have the time and are interested in academics it may help you further your career faster.
Getting a Horticulturist Certification
You may also have to look into certification when looking into how to become a horticulturalist. Depending on where you are, you may need to be certified to get anywhere as a horticulturalist.
In the United States, there are optional certifications offered through organizations like the American Society for Horticultural Science. The American Society for Horticultural Science requires a mixture of education or experience. For example, a two-year degree combined with two years of experience.
Learning About The Horticulture Process
You also need to learn about the different parts of the horticulture industry to know what you want to focus on. There are tons of different horticulture jobs you can have, so it’s really important to consider your options and choose what’s right for you. You wouldn’t want to choose an extremely physical field, for one, if you have back or shoulder problems.
For example, you can learn about the different technologies and machinery that go into greenhouses. You can see more about different technologies involved with horticulture at various websites.
How to Become a Horticulturalist
Like most careers, there are specific steps you need to take in order to become a horticulturalist. Getting an education is most important. You also need to decide which part of the horticulture industry you would like to work in.
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