Cran Career Spotlight: Horticulturist
Overview
A Horticulturist uses their knowledge to help growers/farmers make best management decisions based on scientific observation and data. Optimal plant health and sustainable crop production is the end goal. Horticulturist act as a liaison between researchers and farmers to help implement current research to farm practices.
What is this career like?
Horticulturist can work in the field, laboratories, and offices. During the growing season they may visit fields to make observations and collect data to help farmers in season. They may conduct research in the fields. In the winter, Horticulturist work in offices preparing farm management plans and analyzing data. They also may present educational observations and findings at workshops, meetings and other professional development settings.
Some of the things Horticulturists might do:
Identify insects, weeds, and diseases to develop an Integrated Pest Management Plan.
Collect soil and tissue samples to help form a Nutrient Management Plan.
Observe and collect data to help growers with Water Management Plans.
Act as a liaison between researchers and farmers to help implement current research on farms.
Participate and collect scientific data for research.
Analysis data and present findings to farmers.
Work closely with farmers to develop and implement whole farm management plans.
Write or contribute to newsletter or educationally publications.
Conduct or plan industry workshops, meetings and other educational events.
What skills are needed?
Analytical skills. Horticulturists base their recommendations on careful analysis of scientific data. They must consider all possible methods and solutions in their analyses.
Communication skills. Horticulturists present and explain their findings to audiences of varying backgrounds. They may also write technical reports for various platforms.
Interpersonal skills. Horticulturists typically work on teams along with crop scouts, growers, technicians, and researchers. Team members must be able to work together effectively to achieve their goals.
Problem-solving skills. Horticulturists try to find the best possible solution to problems that affect the plant health while keeping the environment safe.
Self-discipline. Horticulturists may spend a lot of time working alone. They need to stay motivated and get their work done efficiently.
What education is required?
Horticulturists have a bachelor’s or associate degree in Horticulture. Field experience is just as important. Field experience can be gained under supervision from an experienced Horticulturist.
Specialized courses that are helpful include: Soil Science, Horticulture, Agronomy, Entomology, Crop Physiology, Environment Science, Conservation, Chemistry, Meteorology and Plant Pathology. Understanding the plants and how they react to the environment around them is essential.