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A Horticulturalist works in a range of different fields to cultivate green areas or help other people select plants. You might work with farmers to help them choose a suitable crop or improve their crop health. You might help to prepare gardens in parks or town areas or you might work to landscape private green areas. Horticulturalists conduct tests on soil quality, measure water levels and consider weather conditions to ensure a garden has the best chance to thrive. You might also work on projects in natural areas to restore environmental conditions.
Horticulturalists need to have a passion for plants and enjoy working outdoors. It’s a physical job and you’ll do a lot of manual labour. You’ll need to be good at keeping records and be able to follow instructions and work to a plan. Horticulturalists may be working on several projects at any one time so you’ll need to be good at organisation and time management.
There are 10 courses available for people who want to become a Horticulturalist. These are the top 5 most popular courses.
Possible job outcomes:
The AHC50422 Diploma of Horticulture Management is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the advanced skills and knowledge required to work in the field of horticulture. This diploma focuses on strategic management, sustainable practices, and advanced horticultural techniques, preparing students for leadership roles in the evolving horticulture industry..
Average duration: 12 months.
The Bachelor of Science (Plant Biology) examines various aspects of plant life, including plant physiology, conservation, and biogeography. Students will explore topics ranging from environmental changes to food biotechnology. The course also delves into plant morphology, reproduction, and evolution. This knowledge equips graduates to pursue careers in diverse fields such as biofuel development, nutritional plant research, and the discovery of plant-based medical therapies..
Average duration: 3 years.
The Bachelor of Science (Botany) delves into the relationship between plants and society, covering plant ecology, physiology, and biotechnology. Students gain proficiency in project design and data analysis. Botany underscores the significance of plants in addressing environmental concerns, ensuring sustainable food sources, and managing natural resources. This scientific study emphasizes plants' roles in ecosystems, their cellular functions, and their adaptability to shifting climates, spotlighting efforts to combat biodiversity loss..
Do you work with agricultural chemicals and need the skills to handle, transport, and store them safely? How about the AHCSS00074 Agricultural Chemical Skill Set? It’s a group of nationally recognised short courses that cover the essential aspects of agricultural chemical usage and safety. Competencies include: identifying pests and weeds then determining chemical requirements, identifying different chemicals and assessing their hazards, preparing chemical mixes in accordance with label instructions, safely applying chemicals using a range of application equipment, transporting and storing chemicals according to their Safety Data Sheets SDSs. Enquire now for the list of agricultural career competencies and upcoming enrolment dates. PLEASE NOTE: this skillset is completed as a standalone course and articulates to a full qualification in either horticulture or agriculture..
Average duration: 2 days.
Become a supervisor at a horticulture farm or production nursery with the AHC40320 Certificate IV in Production Horticulture. This nationally recognised qualification will teach you the latest techniques in plant propagation and growing as well as a range of leadership and administration skills. The course covers: implementing a biosecurity program, operating within a budget, managing work teams, ensuring site work health and safety, chemical management and safety, scheduling irrigation, developing soil and plant nutrition programs, and much more. Enquire now for the full list of study units, horticulture and leadership competencies, plus the latest enrolment dates..
In Australia, a full time Horticulturalist generally earns $1,150 per week ($59,800 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
There are currently 98,200 people working in horticulture in Australia. This number is expected to increase to 104,000 over the next five years. Horticulturalist positions can be found in most areas of Australia.
Source: The Labour Market Information Portal – 2019 Occupation Projections
If you’d like to start a career as a Horticulturalist you could enrol in a Certificate IV in Horticulture. This course usually takes 18 months and will give you the knowledge you need to work in a role caring for plants.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within gardening, permaculture and production horticulture. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Gardening
Garden Labourer
$960 weekly pay
Landscape Labourer
Garden Designer
$1,050 weekly pay
Gardener
Greenkeeper
Groundsperson
Horticulturalist
$1,150 weekly pay
Landscape Designer
$1,492 weekly pay
Landscaper
Head Gardener
$1,350 weekly pay
Landscape Manager
Permaculture
Nursery Hand
Nurseryperson
Organic Farmer
$1,440 weekly pay
Sustainable Farmer
Production Horticulture
Farmhand
Vineyard Hand
Agricultural Consultant
$1,635 weekly pay
Agricultural Economist
$1,250 weekly pay
Agronomist
Cotton Ginner
$1,340 weekly pay
Crop Scientist
$2,050 weekly pay
Farmer
Nursery Manager
Seed Technician
Winemaker
Agricultural Manager
$1,600 weekly pay
Agricultural Scientist
$1,500 weekly pay
Learn more about Horticulturalist courses in your area.