Are you fascinated by plants and seeing them grow? Do you like taking care of them?
Then, consider turning your interest in plantsinto a career as a horticulturist!
Horticulturists are professionals who help grow high-quality food and ornamental plants.
What Does A Horticulturist Do?
A horticulturist uses scientific knowledge to grow and cultivate plants and maintain their health.
A horticulturist applies their knowledge to various aspects of plant cultivation such as:
Plant selection
Plant care and management
Pest and disease management
Soil and nutrient management
Where Do They Work?
Horticulturists can find work in a number of places. Some workplaces are:
Nurseries and greenhouses: to provide properly controlled environments for the growth and maintenance of plants.
Botanical gardens: to curate and acquire various plants and ensure their health and aesthetic appeal.
Farms and agricultural facilities: to ensure optimal crop production and management.
Landscaping and architecture firms: to create and maintain visually appealing outdoor spaces in collaboration with landscapers and architects.
Research institutions and universities: to conduct plant research and experiments and/or teach students pursuing horticulture or related fields.
Government agencies and services: to provide expertise and guidance related to plant cultivation and management.
Turf facilities: to manage facilities such as sporting fields and golf courses.
What Are Their Work Responsibilities?
The work responsibilities of a horticulturist vary based on their specific roles and workplaces.
For example, a horticulturist working with farming and agricultural facilities may typically do the following:
Analyze and improve crop production in terms of amount and quality.
Create a crop schedule with farmers to plant and harvest at an appropriate time.
Optimize irrigation practices.
Test fertilizer mixtures to see which one works best.
Manage pests and diseases through continuous research and monitoring.
Quiz: Pick the Future Horticulturist
Amy
Likes plants and learning about different types of plants
Dislikes doing hands-on work
Samir
Likes nature and working in the outdoors
Dislikes extended periods of collaborative work
Leslie
Likes plants and helping her grandparents grow vegetables in their kitchen garden
Dislikes seeing plants wither
Quiz
Who would be an ideal fit for a career as a horticulturist?
What is The Pay Like?
Salaries for horticulturists can differ depending on their location, skill level, experience level, and other factors.
USA
Average yearly salary for a horticulturist as of November 2023 is $46,556 USD.
Canada
Average yearly salary for a horticulturist as of November 2023 is $57,003 CAD.
Advancing to supervisory roles, working for larger corporations, consulting, or having your own horticultural business could lead to higher salaries and income.
What Are The Pros And Cons?
Are you still wondering if being a horticulturist is the right career for you?
Then, take a look at these pros and cons:
Pros
Variety of career opportunities
Variety of work environments
Use creativity to design and maintain green spaces
Help produce quality food
Have a positive impact on the environment
Cons
Exposure to chemicals and fertilizers
Work in a variety of weather conditions
Exposure to plant and pollen allergens
Risk of injuries
Physically demanding work
Take Action
So, are you interested in becoming a horticulturist?
Here are some next steps for you:
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