If you have a passion for plants, then becoming a horticulturist may very well be the ideal career choice for you. Those who work in this profession invest their time in the cultivation and propagation of plant life and work with a variety of different stakeholders from farmers, to local government or private businesses to offer advice and expertise on their plants. This is a very niche career which many people may not think about when they are mapping out what profession they wish to enter. This guide is going to take a deeper look at horticulture, more specifically what exactly a horticulturist does, what horticulture jobs are available for those working in the profession and how exactly you can become a horticulturist.
What Does a Horticulturist Actually Do?
These professionals work within a branch of agriculture which works in the reproduction of plants. Horticulturists focus on the science of plants; their environments and they often work in cultivating and managing land and gardens. These men and women are specialists when it comes to the production of crops, the propagation of plants, plant breeding, genetic engineering and even the biochemistry of various plants and crops. There are of course many disciplines within this area and some horticulturists work within research, others work in landscaping and some may even operate in an advisory capacity.
What Jobs Can Horticulturists Do?
Those who are qualified to be a horticulturist have a wide range of job options available to them, depending on what in particular they wish to do. Some can work in medicine, seeking out ways in which they can use plant life to help treat a range of diseases while others may work with governments in administrative roles which help within the agriculture industry. Other jobs include working with energy companies or perhaps even private institutions carrying out studies and research. There are even horticulturists working with African nations to try and resolve the issue of farming (high heat & lack of water). There are many fields which a horticulturist can work in, the main question is down to what individuals are looking to achieve in their studies and career.
How Can You Become an Expert in Horticulture?
If you do have a passion for the industry then the first step is to earn a bachelor’s degree in the topic such as horticulture, soil science, plant science or a similar field which deals with the science of plant life. For example, many tertiary institutions offer a range of different qualifications such as cert 3 horticulture, however be sure to do your research into what each degree offers so you can pick a qualification that is specifically tailored towards your end career goal. Finally, depending on the area of horticulture that you wish to pursue it is also recommended that individuals try to gain work experience in the industry, before launching into your career.
For anyone who has a love of plants and the natural sciences, becoming a horticulturist offers a wide range of career options. To find out more explore some of the courses on offer at your local university or TAFE today.
