Are you interested in a career in horticulture, but perhaps unsure whether it is the right career choice for you? Are you eager to learn what to expect when working in the field, the types of job opportunities available? Well, you’re not alone if these are similar to the questions lingering in your mind.
Working in horticulture can be a great career to take up. It’s a job where you get to be outside and you get to see the fruits of your labor come to fruition. Yet, it can also be a tough field to take up.
The competition for jobs can be somewhat high, plus there are numerous graduates out there probably willing to work for minimum wage just for the experience.
Let’s take a look at what you can expect from working in horticulture.
You’ll Learn A Lot about Plants and Flowers
They say that every day is a learning day in a field as diverse as horticulture. Well, they’re not wrong because as far as science is concerned, there are over 367,000 known species of flowering plants on the planet. While you will only work with a tiny fraction of these, you will learn a lot about them from studying plant science and your experience as a horticulturist.
You’ll get to use some of your college education, too. Many college horticulture classes cover topics that are important for working in the field, including but not limited to:
- Drip irrigation
- Mulching
- Soil conservation
- Herb gardening
- Toxic and disease control
- Treating pests and diseases
- Composting
You May Need To Start As an Intern
Though this might not always be the case, you may have to start as an intern and work your way up. From botanical gardens to flower farms, some companies often have opportunities that provide an opportunity to fresh graduates and those with a passion for horticulture to gain valuable hands-on experience and learning.
Working at a flower shop can specifically be a great way to learn. When you’re not in school, you could do something that allows you to work in a business where you get to take care of flowers and plants. You can try your luck at companies like The Bouqs Co., which deals with a huge range of flower bouquets and live plant delivery to various destinations.
You Will Work Long Hours, And Work Hard
Horticulture can be labor-intensive, and this is something to keep fresh in your mind when considering the career. You’ll most likely be away from home a lot. Plus, there is a good chance you will be stuck at your job during peak hours as the main horticulturist. So, be sure to expect long days. However, working in horticulture is more than just that. It’s a dream come true, one that you’ll work to achieve.
Many advancement opportunities if you’re passionate
If you’re determined to be a horticulturist, it’s your dream job, and you plan to stick with it, there are numerous opportunities for you to grow your skill set and advance your career. Applying for a job is only the first step.
Once you find the right company that is open to new employees, you’ll have to keep going. As you learn about your new company, you’ll continue to develop your skills. Horticulturists can always take advantage of professional certifications to improve their skills and advance their careers.
There’s obviously a lot more to say about taking up a career in horticulture besides getting a bachelor’s degree, getting certified, and pursuing continuing education courses.
While hands-on experience is perhaps the most important element in any career, having a picture of what the job environment entails is also key. The above few pointers will hopefully help you make the right decision.
