Should I be a horticulturist?

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.

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 breeding

• Plant propagation

• Plant care and management

• Pest and disease management

• Soil and nutrient management

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.

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.

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

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.

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

So, are you interested in becoming a horticulturist?

Here are some next steps for you: