Study Horticulture Online Course and Gain Skills and Knowledge Needed to Better Understand the Growing of Plants

Our Horticulture Online Course will discuss Horticulture, the technology and art of sustainable development, production of plants. We will discuss the role of horticulture and its contribution to the beauty, sustainability and relaxation of our environment and human existence.

Plant growing technology, also known as agronomy, is the technology of production of food plants, cereals, fodder, grasses and fibres by the world's leading companies and consists of production, breeding, and marketing.

The production and use of varieties of seeds and vegetables allow us to have a healthy and balanced diet in daily life. Flowers and ornamental flowers enrich our homes and groups and contribute to our well-being.

What you will learn with our Horticulture Online Course

• Introduction to Horticulture
• Anatomy and Plant Processes
• Soil Science
• Floriculture
• Arboriculture
• Landscape Horticulture
• Indoor Plants
• Plant Species
• Propagation
• Amenity Horticulture
• Fertilizer
• Planting and Potting
• Threats to Plant Health
• Weed Control
• Nuisance Wildlife

How will the Online Horticulture Course be delivered?

Courses are accessed online via our learning management system by any device including PC, tablet or Smart Phone. Upon enrolment an automated welcome email will be sent to you (please check your junk email inbox if not received as this is an automated email), in order for you to access your online course, which is Available 24/7 on any computer or smart mobile device. 

1. Learn how to become an expert in Horticulture 
2. Written and developed by leading Horticulture experts
3. Unlimited, lifetime access to online course
4. Certificate of completion awarded with passing score for the online assessment
5. Study at your own pace with no rigid class timetables, 24/7 from any computer or smart device

Online Horticulture Course - Requirements

The Online Horticulture Course is delivered 100 percent online 24/7 and only takes 20 hours of study to complete.

To successfully complete this course, a student must:

• Have access to the internet and the necessary technical skills to navigate the online learning resources
• Have access to any mobile device with internet connectivity (laptop, desktop, tablet)
• Be a self-directed learner
• Possess sound language and literacy skills

Quick Course Facts

1. Course content is structured for easy comprehension
2. Approximately 20 hours of study is needed to complete the course
3. Registered students gain unrestricted access to the Online Horticulture Course
4. All course material is available online 24/7 and can be accessed using any device
5. Study online from anywhere in your own time at your own pace
6. All students who complete the course will be awarded with a certificate of completion

Horticulture Online Certificate Outline

Module 1: Horticulture

In this lesson, we will go over horticulture fundamentals, which is the art and science of creating and sustainably cultivating plants. Horticulture is an agricultural branch that deals with gardens, commodities, landscaping, and ornamental plants.

History of Horticulture

Horticulture was initially introduced between 7,000 and 10,000 BCE by cultures in southwestern and eastern Asia. Horticulture is a practice developed in the Fertile Crescent, including modern-day Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Iran, and Turkey.

Father of American Horticulture

Liberty Hyde Bailey, the Society for Horticultural Science's first President, was a polymath. He is known as the "Father of American Horticulture" and the "Dean of Horticulture" worldwide.

Role of a Horticulturist

Horticulture encompasses the study of plant physiology and propagation. Horticulturists use their extensive understanding of botany, plant science, and soil science to work in landscape design and crop management.

Salary and Career Outlook

Horticulturists can also work as agricultural worker supervisors, which pays $48,280 on average per year. They could also work as landscapers, assisting with the design and maintenance of gardens and grounds.

Module 2: Anatomy and Plant Processes

We will go through the anatomical components of plants and the processes that allow them to survive in this unit.

Basic Anatomical Components

The study of plant form, structure, and size is known as plant anatomy. It is a branch of botany that investigates a plant's functional and structural components.

Roots

The roots of a plant assist it in remaining erect. Plants use their roots to absorb water, minerals, and other nutrients from the soil. The roots supply the plant with everything it requires to produce nourishment. While the roots of certain aquatic plants float, the majority of roots grow underground in the soil. Some root systems allow the plant to climb by attaching to a vertical surface.

Stems

Plant stems provide two functions. They provide water and minerals to the plant's above-ground elements, often the buds, leaves, and flowers.

Seeds and Flowers

A seed-producing plant's reproductive component is the flower. Male and female cells join to make seeds in flowers.

Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is the process through which green plants transform solar energy into chemical energy. Green plants employ light energy during photosynthesis to convert carbon dioxide, water, and minerals into oxygen and energy-rich living compounds.

Respiration

Sugars are oxidized by plant respiration to provide energy to the plant. In many ways, respiration is the polar opposite of photosynthesis. Plants must produce their food in order to thrive in their natural habitat.

Osmosis

Through a semipermeable membrane, molecules flow from a higher solute concentration zone to a lower concentration zone. The osmotic process can be slowed or stopped by increasing hydrostatic pressure on the high-concentration side of the membrane.

Module 3: Soil Science

We will talk about soil science and how soils form in Module 3. We also go through how to test for crucial soil nutrients.

Soil Basics

Most forms of soil take 500 years or more to develop from rocks on average. When rocks are broken down into their constituent parts, the soil is formed.

Sandy Soil

Sandy soil consists of small, weathered rock fragments created by the dissolution or fragmentation of limestones, granite, and quartz. Sandy soils are among the most difficult to grow plants in.

Loamy Soil

Loam is another form of soil. Sand, silt, and clay make up the mixture. It exemplifies the best qualities of each of its constituents.

Silt Soil

Silt is made up of rock and mineral particles that are smaller than sand but larger than clay. The soil's thin, smooth texture holds water better than sand.

Clay Soil

Of the two soil types, clay has the tiniest particles. This soil's particles are compact and close together, with little to no space between them.

Plant Nutrition

Plants, like animals, require nutrients. They are required for germination, development, and damage resistance. Nutrient availability significantly impacts plant growth and development; thus, knowing the dynamics of nutrient absorption, transport, assimilation, and biological interaction is crucial for enhancing agricultural plant production.

Macronutrients and Micronutrients

Macronutrients are macronutrients, which are vital compounds that plants require in large quantities. Essential macronutrients are absorbed in large amounts by plants, while supplemental micronutrients are consumed in lower amounts. Each of these nutrients serves a distinct purpose in the nutrition of the plant.

Testing Soil

Analyze your soil and make necessary changes to create the best possible environment for plants to thrive in.

Testing Procedures

Testing your soil is the only method to find out if it is suited for your plants. Evaluating your soil is an uncomplicated and straightforward process. Do-it-yourself kits and professional labs are the two options for determining the condition of your soil.

Common Soil Issues

Poor plant performance is frequently caused by unhealthy soil. Correct any soil inadequacies as much as possible before planting.

Soil Erosion

Soil erosion refers to the loss of the top layer of soil. Erosion is widespread on slopes and in regions where soils are exposed.

Composting

Composting is an aerobic process that helps soil and plants convert biodegradable items like twigs and leftover food into fertilizer. By guaranteeing that bacteria, fungus, and other decomposers (such as worms, sowbugs, and nematodes) may thrive in that environment, composting speeds up the breakdown process.

Module 4: Floriculture

We will talk about floriculture's specific niche and the obstacles that horticulturists who work with ornamental plants encounter.

Floriculture

Aesthetic, decorative, and ornamental horticulture are the most common types of floriculture. Despite being primarily grown in structures, many flowers and potted plants are cultivated outside nurseries or crop fields in temperate countries.

Ornamental Plants

Ornamental plants, as their name implies, are ornamental. By providing a beautiful, tranquil setting, they can have a considerable impact on people's well-being.

Bedding and Garden Plants

Plants grown in pots or flats in a greenhouse or similar structure are bedding and garden plants. They will be transplanted to a flower garden, window box, hanging basket, or another outdoor container once they are ready.

Potted Plants

"potted plants" refers to plants grown and cultivated in containers rather than in the ground. Potted plants are ideal for smaller spaces or for more delicate blooms that are susceptible to environmental factors.

Annual Flowers

True annuals are plants that grow, blossom, distribute seeds, and die simultaneously. The end goal is for them to reproduce, which is fantastic news for farmers.

Perennial Flowers

Different sorts of care and upkeep are required for perennials. Some people are harsh and laid-back, as though they wish to be ignored. Others may need more frequent pruning and division to maintain their vigor and cleanliness.

Module 5: Arboriculture

We will describe arboriculture and how to care for plants that fit into this category in Module 5. We will also talk about arboriculturists' roles in various settings and work environments.

Definition of Arboriculture

An arboriculturist is a professional who has the knowledge and technical abilities to maintain trees, shrubs, hedgerows, and vines. An arboriculturist, despite dealing primarily with trees, is frequently well-versed in a variety of fields.

Trees

Arboriculturists are usually interested in trees, as previously noted. Expertise is required for both planting and maintaining a tree.

Shrubs

Shrubs are another type that arboriculturists may be interested in. Because shrubs are so dense and low to the ground, detecting if they are not adequately cared for is simple.

Vines

Arboriculturists are also responsible for the upkeep of vines. Most vines develop by adhering to the structures that surround them. It is what they are made for: climbing up a tree or a wall.

Responsibilities of an Arboriculturist

Depending on their specific expertise and workplaces, arboriculturists may be in charge of a variety of responsibilities.

Module 6: Landscape Horticulture

The first part of this landscape horticulture section will cover lawn design concepts and best practices. We will also review techniques to take care of established lawns.

Lawn Design

Designing a lawn entails tastefully placing plants, fencing, furniture, and other components in an outdoor space to create an outdoor setting.

Mapping

It is preferable first to sketch out your thoughts on a smaller scale. Make a basic sketch of the region you will be working on.

Atmosphere

Your lawn might be formal, semi-formal, or informal in design. The asymmetrical arrangement, with boundaries and defined places for distinct parts, is more formal.

Functionality

Choose a lawn style and leave the rest on your client's lawn. A functional lawn connects lush green turfs with vibrant flower beds for a more cohesive look.

Creativity

You may always experiment with different ideas when it comes to planning laws.

Types of Grass

The type of grass in your area has a significant impact on landscape gardening and lawn planning methods. Knowing the region and season in which your lawn must grow allows you to select the grass that best matches your clients' lawn.

Feeding Established Lawns

Nutrients must be provided to lawns regularly. Various grasses have different nutritional requirements, so keep that in mind while doing soil testing.

Watering Lawns

Keep the following fundamental elements in mind while evaluating a client's irrigation systems and watering methods. Grass can be destroyed by either too little or too much water. The nutrients are washed away by too much water.

Safe Mowing

Grass mowing is an essential element of lawn care. Mowing the grass strategically not only beautifies and trims it but also keeps it looking good.

Module 7: Indoor Plants

Welcome to the indoor plant's module. We will talk about the characteristics of indoor plant settings and what plants need to grow in this unit.

Ideal Environment

When it comes to gardening, indoor surroundings differ significantly from outdoor environments. The presence of a regulated environment in the case of indoor plants is one clear difference.

Light

Light is an essential aspect of plant growth since it aids flowering and photosynthesis. Different plants demand different things.

Temperature

The majority of indoor plants are tropical or subtropical. Therefore, they prefer warmer temperatures. The appropriate temperature promotes plant germination while also allowing for proper respiration and transpiration.

Humidity

Humidity is essential for healthy plant growth. The amount of moisture in the air is measured by relative humidity (RH).

Container Material

Plant containers and pots are available in a wide range of materials and styles. Terracotta, clay, plastic, and ceramic pots can all be found in most home improvement stores.

Container Size

Plants require space to grow. Enough room allows the roots to extend and the leaves to expand. The rate of plant development determines the appropriate container size.

Module 8: Plant Species

We will go through different types of species and how they can affect the local ecology in this section of the course. We will also talk about the threats posed by invasive species.

Native Plants

Native plant species have lived in a region for a long time without being influenced by humans. Native plants do not require human intervention to spread and thrive in a given location.

Exotic Plants

Exotic plant species are non-native species that do not occur natively in a location but are introduced by humans intentionally or accidentally.

Invasive Plants

Exotic plant species that invade and threaten a specific region are known as invasive plant species. They can overrun local flora quickly, posing a threat to biodiversity.

Module 9: Propagation 

The sexual propagation cycle of plants will be discussed in Module 9. You will also learn about cuttings, seeds, and grafting in this unit.

Sexual Propagation Cycle

While reproducing, all plants alternate generations. This means that they must grow as one form to create a second form to reproduce.

Preparing Seed Beds and Trays

When starting a seedbed or tray to produce vegetation or start a garden, keep a few things in mind. The scale will also have an impact on how plants are organized and placed.

Storing Seeds

There are numerous strategies to ensure that seeds will successfully germinate and thrive when stored for later planting. Under the right conditions, seeds can be kept for several years.

Cuttings

In rare cases, cut portions of plants might be used instead of seeds for propagation. The cutting will grow to be the same plant as the one from which it was taken.

Grafts

Grafting is a technique for combining two plants of similar species. One plant's root is taken, while another's upper portion is taken.

Module 10: Amenity Horticulture

This module will cover amenity horticulture, which uses flora and verdure for decoration and pleasure. A discussion of main plant groups and critical concerns when working with decorative plants will be included.

Amenity Horticulture

People can see amenity horticulture whenever they walk into a well-decorated patio area, courtyard, or public garden. It is the skill of arranging plants and flowers so that they are attractive to the eye or the environment.

Key Plant Groups

Four main plant groups survive on land, according to science. Flowering plants (angiosperms), ferns (pteridophytes), cone-growing plants (gymnosperms), and mosses (bryophytes) are all examples of angiosperms.

Hardiness

In order to do amenity horticulture, you must have a thorough understanding of plant resistance and hardiness. The plant's hardiness is crucial in determining whether it satisfies your clients' expectations and is suitable for the environment.

Maintenance

Even if you do not intend to maintain plants, you should be aware of the types of maintenance that will be required. When designing their maintenance routines, landscaping companies or clients may seek your advice.

Appearance

The design's overall appearance and aesthetics must be prioritized. Various plants have different meanings.

Budget

A budget is an unavoidable consideration. You will be limited to working within the budget of your employer or client.

Functionality

The importance of functionality cannot be stressed enough. Even if the outcome is not to be used functionally, an amenity horticulturist must know what will work on a functional level.

Module 11: Fertilizer

We will discuss fertilizer in this session and how it may be used to boost plant health. We will also go through the advantages of composting.

Feeding Plants

The chemical breakdown of once-living organisms into their fundamental parts is known as decay. Beneficial microbes help to speed up this process.

Organic Fertilizer

"Organic" fertilizers contain minerals and nutrients that are produced naturally in outdoor processes. Manure, compost, and bone meal are just a few examples.

Chemical Fertilizer

Chemical fertilizers are artificial mixtures of the nutrients that plants require. They are less safe than organic fertilizers and, over time, harm the soil. They are popular, though, since they produce speedier results.

Composting

Composting is the process of collecting organic matter that is ready to degrade. The decomposition process can be accelerated by combining everything in a composter or compost pile.

Benefits of Composting

Composting is beneficial to all types of plants as well as the environment. Food waste represents a significant amount of trash that could be repurposed for a highly beneficial outcome.

Module 12: Planting and Potting

This potting and planting class will go through the best techniques for keeping plants alive in various situations.

Planting in Containers

Planting in pots or containers is a great way to bring life to a space. To accomplish it correctly, make sure you choose the perfect container for the plant in question.

Fertilizer

Plant food is indicated to help the plant's rate of growth and health by increasing the microbial content. Before planting anything, a layer of fertilizer should be applied to the container. Organic matter is required to nutrition a new plant's seed or the roots of a transplanted plant.

Transplanting

A plant is transplanted when it is relocated from one site to another. Pay close attention to the roots before transplanting. Digging out the plant should be done with care and gentleness, especially if it is small. Roots can regrow if they are lost, but it will take time.

Staking

Plants may require support to ensure they do not topple over when establishing themselves in their new surroundings. A healthy plant may droop, but this should be adjusted to receive the maximum amount of sunshine while also increasing blood flow throughout its cells.

Caring for Newly Transplanted Plants

Growing a plant from a seed differs slightly from caring for one that has recently been transplanted. During the first few days after transplantation, watering should be done more often.

Feeding

Because a potted plant is locked in one mound of soil, the feeding strategy must be carefully examined to avoid disrupting the well-controlled environment. Liquid foods with high nitrogen concentrations are recommended for a rapid feed and to avoid acid accumulation.

Watering

Plants in pots should be watered once or twice a week. It is critical to determine the proper amount of water that can reach the roots.

When to Fertilize

Different plants require different quantities of fertilizer, but they all require multiple applications throughout the growing season.

Maintenance: Cutting Back

Cutting back is a procedure that involves cutting the plant's stem with shears while it is still growing. This boosts the stem's strength, allowing it to support larger blooms or fruits.

Maintenance: Pinching

Pinching is similar to cutting back. However, it is done with the fingers instead of a knife. It has been customarily conducted every two to three weeks on smaller plants.

Maintenance: Deadheading

The removal of fading and dead flowers is known as deadheading. When a flower dies, its seeds are dispersed. Some plants that could have produced additional flowers will not bloom again that season due to this. More bud and blossom development can be triggered by removing the fading flowers.

Module 13: Threats to Plant Health

We will talk about disease and pests as well as other hazards to plant health in Module 13. We will also look at some of the environmental factors that can harm plants.

Types of Threats

Disease and environmental factors are the most common hazards to plant health. Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections are the most common causes of these disorders.

Insects and Pests

Insects naturally feed on plants to survive. Plant sap is a food source for the larvae of these insects. Butterflies, moths, and beetles are insects that live and feed on different portions of plants. Flowers, leaves, roots, and stems are the most commonly attacked by pests and insects.

Defining Disease

Plant disease is defined as a disorder that affects a plant's development and natural growth. Nonliving and living agents also contribute to these situations.

Fungi

In and above the soil, fungi disease agents can be detected. The fungal illness causes the roots in the soil to expand and rot and the stems to flop once they decompose.

Viruses

Almost all viruses are intracellular, meaning they live inside a plant's cells. Viruses infect and replicate in a host plant before spreading to other plants via nematodes, fungus, and insects.

Bacterial Disease

In humid and warm settings, bacterial illnesses are most common. Bacterial agents proliferate by splitting their cells into two halves, a process known as binary fission.

Detection and Control

Plant diseases can be identified by looking for the pathogens' general symptoms. In plants, different infections produce diverse indications and symptoms.

Insecticides

Insecticides are chemicals that kill arthropods and insects, protecting the health of plants. Most pesticides work by disrupting the pest's nervous system, but they can also damage the digestive system.

Fungicides

Insecticides are chemicals that kill arthropods and insects, protecting the health of plants. Most pesticides work by disrupting the pest's nervous system, but they can also damage the digestive system.

Extreme Temperatures

This is a type of insecticide that protects plants from fungal agents that cause disease. Sprays, smokes, fogs, and mists are used to apply them.

Shade

The rate of photosynthesis is lowered when a plant develops in the shadow. Lack of energy has a significant impact on leaf shape and tolerance.

Drainage

Water naturally flows through the soil as a result of gravity's power. When the drainage system is compromised, however, problems such as waterlogging might arise.

Module 14: Weed Control

We will delve more into the topic of weeds and their features. We will also go through how to keep weeds from taking over.

Defining Weeds

Weeds are plants that were not purposefully grown or planted. Weeds, in general, are not advantageous to a farmer, client, or horticulture.

Characteristics of Weeds

Weeds produce abundant seeds for propagation.

Controlling Weeds

Weeds can be controlled in a variety of methods. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Some of them are more successful than others.

Weeding by Hand

Rather than using mechanical or chemical treatments, some people choose to pluck weeds by hand. This takes a long time to complete.

Herbicides

Herbicides, often known as weed killers, are any chemical used to prevent or destroy weeds. Herbicides are classified as selective or non-selective.

Module 15: Nuisance Wildlife

This is the final module. Different sorts of nuisance wildlife will be discussed in Module 15. While seeing wildlife is delightful, horticulturists may find their presence to be a source of grave concern.

Defining Nuisance Wildlife

Animals or insects that cause damage to plants and other property are referred to as nuisance wildlife. These pests can destroy plants over large areas, resulting in significant losses and damage.

Small Mammals

Small mammals are the most common type of nuisance animals. They may be highly destructive, despite their small.

Predators

Even predators that do not eat plants directly can inflict significant damage.

Responding to Nuisance Wildlife

There are a variety of approaches that can be employed to deal with nuisance wildlife.

Traps

Traps can be very effective at keeping pests and nuisance wildlife at bay. Traps can be helpful in various scenarios, although they are frequently used as a last resort due to the necessity for permissions in some cases.

Barriers

One of the most efficient ways to keep nuisance species away is to build a fence or physical barrier. Metals can be used to create physical barriers that can withstand pressure from wildlife and the elements.

Recognition & Accreditation

Upon successful completion of this course and achieving a passing score for the assessment, you will become a qualified Horticulturist. You will also be issued with an international continuing education credit (CEU) certificate, accepted by many Horticulture organizations worldwide.

The Certificate is applicable worldwide, which demonstrates your commitment to learning new skills. You can share the certificate with your friends, relatives, co-workers, and potential employers. Also, include it in your resume/CV, professional social media profiles and job applications.