Nurserypersons oversee the propagation and growth of a wide variety of horticulture plants in both production horticulture and amenity horticulture environments. The work can involve the cultivation of trees, shrubs, and ornamental and flowering plants and includes a range of activities.
A nurseryperson manages the early stages of the plant life cycle. Often working in green houses and outdoor nurseries, they help to prepare, manage, process seedlings from the nursery. They closely monitor the seedlings to ensure all of their needs are met and are proactive to address any issues.
Core Tasks:
- Preparing soil and fertiliser mixes for containers, trays, or beds.
- Selecting seeds, bulbs, and cuttings, and planting them in containers, trays, or beds.
- Ensure seedlings have the correct growing environment.
- Water plants manually and schedule automatic irrigation systems.
- Managing hydroponic systems.
- Develop a soil health and plant nutrition program.
- Applying pesticides to control pests, diseases, weeds, and nutritional and environmental plant disorders.
- Keep records of soil mixtures, plantings, treatments, losses, and yields.
- Select plants and package them for presentation and delivery.
- Advise customers on plant care and appropriate plants for local conditions.
- Supervise maintenance of property, machinery, and equipment.
Study Pathways:
- AHC50820 – Diploma of Nursery Management
- ACH30716 – Certificate III in Horticulture
- ACH30620 – Certificate III in Production Horticulture
- ACH33719 – Certificate III in Protected Horticulture
- ACH40416 – Certificate IV in Horticulture
- ACH40320 – Certificate IV in Production Horticulture
- ACH40219 – Certificate IV in Protected Horticulture
Soft Skills:
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Attention to detail
- Time management
Opportunities:
- Nurserypersons, Nursery supervisors, and Senior Nurserypersons are in high demand in the Horticulture sector. With each promotion, a nursery staff will increase their ability to manage a team and take on more responsibility in the nursery.
