Horticulture / Gardening Courses

Advanced Certificate in Applied Horticulture VHT079

Set Yourself Apart as a Professional Horticulturist

This is a broad-based horticultural qualification and gain a solid foundation on which to base a number of positions in the varied horticulture industry. 

  • It is taught by leading horticulturists from across Australia and the UK.
  • Graduates will have a set of knowledge and skills that will set them apart as an exceptional horticulturist and guarantee an opportunity to forge a career as a leader in this industry. 


  More Information

Amenity Horticulture I BHT324

What is Amenity Horticulture?  Amenity horticulture covers diverse sectors in the horticulture industry and because of this studying amenity horticulture is beneficial to anyone working or wanting to work in the industry (irrelevant of the sector).   Learn to manage gardens, parks and other forms of amenity horticulture.   Major sectors within the amenity horticulture industry typically include the following:
  • Arboriculture
  • Landscape industry
  • Parks and gardens
  • Turf management
  • Nurseries – retail and wholesale
  • Interior landscaping
  • Floriculture
Opportunities As an amenity horticulturist, you will promote and implement strategies that conserve soil, water, air and biodiversity for the benefit of future generations, whether you work in backyard gardens to those or in the management of national parks covering thousands of hectares. This course will develop your ability to establish and manage sites responsibly and with sensitive consideration of both human and environment requirements.   Understand Amenity horticulture

“This is the place to start for anyone with an interest in amenity horticulture or who wishes to understand the industry. Graduates will develop knowledge of the industry at both a global and local level of the different sectors of the industry and become familiar with responsible environmental management strategies of natural and created landscapes.” Gavin Cole - M.Sc., B.Sc. (hons), Psych. Cert., Cert.Garden Design, MACA - ACS Tutor.

 


  More Information

Amenity Horticulture II BHT325

Learn more about managing horticultural amenities.

An amenity horticulture site can be defined as “Land primarily used for recreation, pleasure, visual enhancement or environmental protection or improvement rather than for the production of economic crops”. Under this definition, there is a very broad spectrum of land uses for amenity horticulture sites, and no one management strategy can be applied to all types of amenity horticulture pursuits. 

Learn about managing budgets, managing human resources and managing material resources. This course can be taken after Amenity Horticulture I, or as a stand alone course for those with some experience in the industry.


  More Information

Annuals BHT115

Learn to Identify and Grow Annual Flowers

Many different annuals with spectacular flowers are cultivated specifically for the colour they can bring to a garden; as a bedding display, a container plant or a cut flower.

This course develops your familiarity with a wide variety of such plants, and improves your capacity to successfully grow them.


  More Information

Arboriculture I BHT106

Learn to Grow, Manage, Repair and Assess Trees Increasingly, tree care is recognised as an advanced science. We now understand the importance of regular attention being given to trees and, in studying this subject, you have a responsibility to monitor the trees you are seeing and let people know of their condition.

 

This course is not only for the arborist, but is relevant to anyone working in the horticulture or environmental  industries. Be guided by a team of highly qualified and experienced horticulturists. Take this course to help develop your skills and understanding in diagnosis and treatment of tree problems like environmental disorders, pests, diseases, nutritional and water problems. You will learn about the standard tree surgery practices, to prune and train both young and established trees, and suitable safety measures to follow.


  More Information

Arboriculture II BHT208

Learn More about Growing, Managing and Assessing Trees

Tree management practices have been developed to enhance the longevity of trees. As with people, good health can be promoted in trees by improving the environment and observing best practices for treatment of diseases. 

This course will appeal to those with a fundamental understanding of trees but would like to take things to the next level.

  • Further your career in arboriculture or more broadly, horticulture
  • Start an arboriculture business, become a consultant or a tree assessor
  • Improve your capacity to identify trees and determine treatments for their care and maintenance
  • Work in the environmental industry using your knowledge of trees to advise on retention or rehabilitation.

“This course provides graduates with more in-depth knowledge than Arboriculture I  focussing on such topics as transplanting techniques, environmental control, environmental tolerance, and strengthening techniques, as well as felling and stump removal. The course culminates with a lesson on establishing and designing a tree plantation geared at the serious professional.” - Gavin Cole M.Sc., B.Sc. (hons), Psych.Cert., Cert.Garden Design, MACA, ACS Tutor


  More Information

Aromatherapy VHT104

 

Use Herbs for Physical and Psychological Wellbeing

Study this course to learn which herbs can be used for aromatherapy and how they may be used. It is a great course for anyone wishing to learn more about the safe use of aromatherapy essential oils for healing and relaxation.   Essential oils are the backbone of aromatherapy. Their effectiveness is dependent on their safe and proper use, as well as on the quality of the oil used. Oils work in a more subtle way than many commercially prepared products and in many situations are more suitable for preventative treatment rather than cure.

This course is ideal for those:

  • Wanting to become an aromatherapist
  • Already working in alternative medicine
  • Working in the health food industry

The course will also appeal to enthusiasts who just want to know more about aromatherapy for home use or personal knowledge. 

   

  More Information

Certificate in Garden Maintenance Services (VHT036)

Become your own boss in the gardening industry!

Horticulture is a broad industry with jobs available in different sectors from hard landscaping to design, and restoration to maintenance. Many people have some idea about gardening - whether because they are self-taught or it has been passed down to them, but unless you really study it you can quite easily end up relying on 'old wive's tales' and a hotchpotch of information. This course irons out the facts about general horticulture principles. In studying it you will start off on the right foot.

 

Future Work 

Do you want to own and operate a garden maintenance business or maybe you are thinking about becoming a franchisee of an established business? Study this course to will learn everything you need to know to start and run a business in gardening.

Learn how to be competent in understanding plant nutrition and fertilisation, methods of weed, pest & disease control, and recognising plant watering needs. All the fundamentals of garden maintenance are also described like pruning, use of different types of tools & equipment, and how to look after turf grasses.   

Gardening can be a lucrative business once you have established your client base and developed business connections. You can do that by carrying out excellent customer service skills and making gardens beautiful.

Learn from our horticulture experts with over 30 years experience in this industry!


  More Information

Certificate in Horticulture - VHT002

Want to be a Horticulturist?

This course will help you to become not only a horticulturist, but an exceptional horticulturist.
  • Learn to identify hundreds of plants
  • Discover what makes plants thrive or die
  • Build contacts within the industry that will help a business or career grow
  • Be guided by a team of highly qualified and internationally respected professional horticulturists

ACS Student Comment: "Yes, [the course is a valuable learning experience] the reading is informative, the assignments are practical and the feedback is great. I find the assignments challenging and a lot of work to do properly, which is great. Overall, really enjoying the learning experience." Penelope Parsons, Australia, Certificate in Horticulture

Certificate in Horticulture

This is a vocationally orientated course providing specialised training for employment in the horticultural industry.

The core component (50%) of this course provides a broad-based  foundation in all areas of horticulture, with particular emphasis on horticulture principles like culture, soils, nutrition, pruning, propagation, and taxonomy (plant identification). Upon completion of the core studies you have the opportunity to choose a stream or specialisation to develop more focused knowledge in the second half of the course.   Accredited by the International Accreditation & Recognition Council. This course has been the starting point for hundreds of successful horticulturists now working in industry across Australia, the UK and beyond. This has been the most popular starting point for horticultural training since the early 1990's. The course is reviewed and updated twice annually. Feedback from graduates is overwhelming - the most common comments being:
  • How "practical" and "hands-on" the course is, and
  • How much one-on-one support they have received from the tutors.
  If you want a career in horticulture, this is one of the best starting points you will find!

  More Information

Cutting Propagation BHT211

Learn to efficiently propagate a wide variety of plants by cuttings

Creating new plants from cuttings is extremely fulfilling whether for the amateur or professional. Most plants can be reproduced from cuttings although some are considerably more difficult than others, and a few are quite impossible. Even where cuttings successfully  'strike' there is no guarantee that you will be able to see them thrive into a full grown plant. The hard work has only just begun.

 

This course lays the foundation for a career as a professional propagator, or to start your own production nursery. 

This course is great for those that:
  • Work in a nursery
  • Have an interest in propagation
  • Are looking to improve skills in taking cuttings
Propagation is a particularly valued skill in today's nursery industry, and while no course alone is going to make you into an exceptional propagator, this training provides a necessary foundation needed to build these skills.   ACS student comment: "[The course] is teaching me a lot about propagation that I did not know. Your courses are very good, easy to understand, full of lots of valuable information. My tutor is very good, fair and always there if needed." Pauline Ross, Australia - Cutting Propagation course.

 


  More Information

Foundation Certificate in Garden Planning and Development Level 3

Advanced level Horticulture Course for Working in Landscaping!  

ACS student comment: "I have found the course material to be comprehensive and informative and have learnt a lot and really enjoyed my year of study. The office staff at ACS have always been helpful and efficient and quick to respond to requests or queries. My tutor, was encouraging and supportive, as well as being really thorough in the way she marked my assignments. I had not studied for 20 years before I started this course and the feedback and reassurance I received from my tutor made all the difference." Katherine Parry, Australia Take your knowledge of horticulture to the next level

  • Learn about garden planning, construction and planting
  • Find a job, start a business, work in landscaping
  • 150,000 words of unique course notes developed by our staff
  • 200 hour self paced course
  • Support from an international team of highly qualified horticulturists and landscape professionals based both in the UK and Australia

  More Information

Foundation Certificate in Horticulture -VHT003

A Fast Track Horticulture Certificate for Anyone Wishing to Work in Different Areas of Horticulture 

This vocationally-oriented course comprises core studies in general horticulture plus specialised elective studies. The course is designed to lay a foundation for a long-term career in horticulture by developing the ability to identify a large range of plants, knowledge of essential horticultural principles and practices and practical skills in plant propagation, growth and care.

The course is suited to those who would like to:

  • Start a horticultural business
  • Get a job in the horticulture industry - amenity horticulture, gardening, parks, public gardens

ACS Student Comment:  "I am very impressed by the standard of the core materials, by the professional and ever helpful and supportive admin ......" ..."I also like the green, environmentally sensitive approach to the course" K. Eastwell, Foundation Certificate in Horticulture


  More Information

Foundation Certificate in Plant Growth for Horticulture Level 2

Learn the science  of plants and the plant kingdom. This new certificate level course is comprehensive (very comprehensive!) - your knowledge at the end will exceed most people's studying at this level. A stand alone course that is great value!   Foundation Certificate in Plant Growth for Horticulture Level 2

This course covers 4 units...

  • The Plant Kingdom (Unit 1)
  • Plant Nutrition, The Root Environment (Unit 2)
  • Pests, Diseases and Weeds (Unit 3)
  • Sexual and Asexual Propagation (Unit 4)

  More Information

Foundation Certificate in Plant Growth for Horticulture Level 3

Study the next level of Horticulture

  • Qualify as a gardener or nurseryman with an internationally recognised qualification
  • 200 hour, flexible, self paced course to build stronger knowledge of plant identification, horticultural science and the day to day techniques used in plant nurseries and garden management.

This course can be studied, and exams sat, anywhere in the world, with ACS Distance Education.


  More Information

Foundation Certificate in Residential Garden Planning and Care Level 2

Foundation Certificate in Residential Garden Planning and Care Level 2   Get a great horticultural qualification in garden design   Be prepared to work hard in this course and be prepared to learn a lot!   Join other students that have started successful businesses on completion of this comprehensive and challenging course. This course provides a route to employment in professional horticulture by assessing knowledge of the scientific principles and underpinning horticultural practices, and supports career development for those already working in the profession. It also provides a foundation for further learning or training in the field of horticulture.

There are no prerequisites required for entry into this course.


  More Information

Garden Centre Management BHT255

Learn how to successfully manage a Garden Centre

Garden Centres can be large or small, and the range of plants which they sell can be broad or narrow. A garden centre may also sell other products that are relevant to a garden, and complement the plants which they stock.

Designed in conjunction with the state garden department manager of a major retail chain store, this course has been very successful in training both staff and managers of retail nurseries and garden centres worldwide.


  More Information

Garden History BHT329

Understand How Gardens are Intertwined with Culture & Society

Gardening has been with us for thousands of years. Its roots can be traced back to ancient Egypt. Whilst the styles and purposes of gardening have changed according to trends and the needs of people, the intrinsic value of gardens and gardening to whole populations has always remained intact.

This is a great course for garden history enthusiasts as well as garden designers and people restoring old gardens, as well as those looking for great planting schemes and ideas.

Study great gardens and gardeners of years past. Learn about how gardens have evolved over time, and gain inspiration for ways to integrate this in to modern garden design. Garden history will enlighten you, and vastly expand the scope of possibilities you have before you as a modern garden designer.

 


  More Information

Garden Maintenance -VHT100

Professional Gardeners - Learn More than just how to Mow a Lawn

Professional gardeners are hard to find: many people are able to maintain gardens, but not many are able to do it well. Gardening entails more than just mowing lawns, carting away rubbish or pulling out a few weeds; you really need to have broad knowledge of all the aspects of proper garden care to get those plum jobs.

Good garden maintenance also means knowing the best way to tackle garden jobs and when to do them. You wouldn't prune a camellia in winter, for example...or would you?  

Study this course to gain insight into the tricks of the trade. It is suitable training for:

  • The gardening professional.
  • Thoe starting a garden maintenance business of your own
  • The beginner gardener - working for a head gardener or as an employee in garden maintenance
  • Garden enthusiasts or those wanting to learn how to maintain their own garden effectively

In this course you will learn:

  • When and how to fertilise, water, and prune plants
  • Techniques and products for controlling weeds, pests and diseases
  • How to start a gardening business, or seek work as a gardener
  • How to better manage your own garden

We usually think of garden maintenance as a summer priority when lawns, weeds and plants grow vigorously but even in winter a garden may deteriorate without regular maintenance. Proper maintenance costs both time and money. Fortunately, there are shortcuts but these require knowledge and the right materials and equipment.


  More Information

Greenhouse Management BHT257

Learn how to grow more productive and profitable crops in a greenhouse. 
  • How to control the temperature, water and nutrient levels in greenhouse
  • Importance of lighting 
  • Getting plants to flower out of season

Develop skills and knowledge about the latest technologies required to operate a profitable greenhouse and grow produce throughout the year. 


  More Information

Home Garden Expert - AHT101

 BE A GARDEN EXPERT

Do you have a garden or access to one and would like to make more of it? Do you have some ideas about how to improve your garden but you're not sure where to start? If so, look no further. This is an absolutely fabulous course for the home gardener. ACS student comment: "Great course, tutor was really good with explaining and marking. [She] gave me new ideas for my garden and hints for it too. Learning so many new things about growing different vegetables, how to grow them and what to do. All about soils and garden plots." Kathryn Crossfield, Australia - Home Vegetable Growing course. This course contains hundreds of pages of notes, hundreds of photos and illustrations, and (for the online & CD version) large numbers of automated self assessment tests. Become the gardening expert of your family with this comprehensive home gardening course. There are eight units each comprising 2 or 3 lessons, with each lesson involving both reading and practical work. This is a "blue ribbon" course for home gardeners who want the best.      

  More Information

Horticultural Resource Management - BHT203

LEARN HOW TO MANAGE RESOURCES IN THE HORTICULTURE INDUSTRY   Good management will make or break any horticultural enterprise; whether a business or even a government department! Whether small or large, this course covers critical studies for anyone who is in charge of a horticultural resource.     This course is aimed at:
  • The horticultural professional at management level
  • Those working in a professional capacity as a horticulturist looking to improve their career prospects.
  • Those running their own horticultural business and wanting to better manage their resources
  Develop management strategies appropriate to specific enterprises in the horticultural industry. Planning for efficient and economical management in horticulture includes such things as work procedures and programming, budgeting and staff supervision. The course is relevant to all areas of horticulture including nurseries, parks, private gardens, market gardening and fruit production.

  More Information

Horticultural Science 2100 hour Learning Bundle

Be a Plant Science Professional:
  • Work in plant science research
  • Work as a plant science teacher
  • Work as a horticultural consultant
This is a serious professional study program, equivalent to 2 to 3 years of full time study. Because it is self paced, you may work harder and fast track your studies; or if time is limited, spread your study over as many years as is needed. ACS Student Comment:  "I have found the course to be interesting and challenging, with great learning materials that really make you research the industry and get involved. It has been a great way to study because it has allowed me to work in the industry and study at the same time. I have found the online resources to be fantastic, the tutors feedback constructive and the fact that assignments can be submitted online makes the process so easy." Tom Wood, Australia - Learning bundle in Horticultural Science course. Through this course you will develop a strong foundation in both horticulture and science; plant culture, garden design, plant identification; and the botany and chemistry that underpins an understanding of how to grow different plants, wherever you live in the world.

Graduates may find employment as

  • A consultant
  • A technician
  • A teacher
  • A research assistant.
  • This course has a unique global focus and provides an opportunity to be tutored by highly qualified horticulturists based in Australia, the UK and NZ. Unique factors such as this help to arm our graduates with a skills set and perspective that is rare to find in other institutions.


      More Information

    Horticultural Therapy BHT341

    The Healing Power of Gardening

    Horticulture is in a unique position when it comes to therapy. People with a range of ailments from physical handicap to mental health problems, the visually impaired and infirm can all benefit from it. But so too can healthy people, including children and the elderly. Horticulture offers opportunities to feel at one with nature. You can grow plants, create designs and stimulate the senses through fragrant plants, brightly coloured plants and those which feel wonderful to touch.

    If you are interested in horticulture and would like to help others this course could be the direction you seek.

    Study this course to help people heal, learn and grow through the power of horticulture.

    Gardens and gardening have been found to be deeply therapeutic for a wide range of people. Horticultural therapy addresses a range of psychological, physical, emotional, social, developmental and cognitive factors to aid in healing, rehabilitation and a host of other benefits.

    This is a course for the budding horticulturist, looking to share their horticultural knowledge to benefit others, for garden designers with an interest in therapeutic gardens, or for the care professional who is looking to broaden the scope of therapies they offer. It may also be studied purely for interest.

     


      More Information

    Horticulture I - BHT101

    Thousands Have Started their Horticulture Career Here

    Everyone who works in horticulture needs a solid understanding of general horticultural principles and practices. Whether in landscaping or grounds maintenance, amenity horticulture or parks and public gardens, propagation to nursery work - this course is applicable to all.

     

    About the Course

    • This course has been running since 1979
    • It has been revised and upgraded every year
    • Learn ALL the basics and have a foundation that makes learning on the job much easier
    • Build your contacts in the industry, be tutored by internationally renowned garden experts
    This is the ideal course for anyone who has not studied horticulture before. It is a basic yet thoroughly practical course which gives you a sound broad technical grounding in horticultural principles and practices. This course can be the first step towards either a certificate or diploma, or it can be studied simply as a standalone foundation for a career in horticulture.

    Find out about how plants are affected by different types of soils, nutritional deficits and toxicities, over watering and under watering, pests, diseases and other environmental influences. Learn all you need to know to have a successful relationship with plants.  

    ACS student comment: "Yes, [the course has been a valuable learning experience] definitely. I’m learning a lot of things that I find useful straight away, and there are lessons that I can practically apply to help me to learn." Rowena Headlam, Australia - Horticulture 1 course.

     


      More Information

    Horticulture II - BHT102

    Learn to Identify Plants and Be an Expert!   Plant identification is an area most horticulturists and keen gardeners  are keen to improve. Being able to recognise plants, their genera and families is useful because it gives you a better understanding of their likely optimal growing conditions and thereby how to use them effectively in gardens and other situations. It also helps you to describe plants more accurately and to source plants you seek.     Our surveys over more than 35 years, continually show that identifying a large range of plants is what nurserymen, landscapers and other horticultural employers continually rate as one of the most important skills for employees.   This course teaches you these skills, concentrating on the identification, care and use of plants in a systematic way.   This course is suited to:
    • Anyone working in the horticulture industry who wishes to improve their plant knowledge
    • People who are hoping to get work in the horticulture or conservation industries
    • Gardening and plant enthusiasts

    Take this course on its own, or together with Horticulture I.


      More Information

    Horticulture III ( Plant Health ) - BHT116

    Become a Plant Doctor

    • Learn to identify pests, diseases and other ailments
    • Learn to treat plant problems and restore health and vigour

    Develop your ability to detect health problems in plants, and determine appropriate control methods.

    This course is relevant to either natural gardening, or gardening with responsible use of chemicals. It is useful and appropriate for both crop production or amenity horticulture.   Whatever approach you take to plant health management, prevention is always preferable to cure; and the systematic understanding of plant health that comes from studying this course will provide the basis for better prevention in any horticultural situation.

      More Information

    Managing Notable Gardens and Landscapes BHT340

    Expand your skills to manage Designed Landscapes and Gardens!

    This is a great professional development course for parks managers, landscapers, superintendents and curators. A designed landscape can be described as parks, gardens or grounds that are pre-conceived, designed and constructed for artistic effect. Parklands, woodlands, water and notable formal and informal gardens are included. Some may have significant wildlife, archaeological and scientific interest; they are also often the grounds in which buildings of historical significance are situated.

     


      More Information

    Nursery Growers Course VHT101

    Learn how to make a start in the nursery business.

    This is an introductory course which shows the beginner how to get started in the nursery business.

    • Learn how to propagate plants.
    • Decide what to propagate.
    • Learn how to start a small inexpensive operation.
    • Learn how to go about selling what you grow.

     


      More Information

    Nursery Hands Course

    Develop the knowledge and skills for working in a plant nursery.

    Understand the scope and nature of nursery work, from watering and pest management to potting and dealing with customers.

    “Those who seek to enter the nursery industry or who are currently employed in a nursery will find this course invaluable. From plant identification to propagation, nursery structures to irrigation, this course has it all. Graduates will be accomplished in all aspects of nursery work from the ground up to marketing.” - Gavin Cole B.Sc., Psych.Cert., Cert.Garden Design, MACA, ACS Tutor.


      More Information

    Nursery Sales Assistant VHT103

    Become the Local Nursery Sales Guru!

    To be competent in nursery work requires not only good customer service skills but also a sound plant knowledge. As well as the general public, nursery staff often liaise with landscape gardeners, architects, designers and other professionals and so awareness of plant identification and plant use is needed for effective communication.

    This course was developed in response to a request from a retail nurseryman who was finding it difficult to find staff with appropriate skills. As he put it, job applicants were either over qualified or lacked the basic skills needed to be able to identify plants, advise customers on their use, and to understand some basic sales techniques and procedures.

    Page generated 10/09/2008 2:00:30 PM

    -->

    Study this course to:

    • Learn about plant identification, plant care.
    • Discover the best ways to sell plants to customers.
    • Develop your ability to converse effectively with other industry professionals.
    This wide-ranging course will teach you all the sales secrets you need to know, plus give you the necessary knowledge required to advise customers on plants.
    • Become an expert in nursery sales
    • Get a job at a nursery

     


      More Information

    Operational Business Management I BHT326

    Study Operational Business Management Online!

    Learn to Plan for Economic and Marketing Success in a Horticultural Enterprise of any type.   For keen Horticultural Professionals who want to get ahead in their career! Focusing on managing Economics, Planning and Marketing of operations in horticulture.   Your ability to manage a business can make a huge difference to your success in horticulture. In this course, you will learn to the business side of horticulture, including how to plan and implement effective strategies for your business and/or services. This is a module in the Royal Horticultural Society’s Master of Horticulture

      More Information

    Operational Management II for Horticulture BHT327

    Study Legal, Contractual and Staff Management for Horticultural Enterprises

    • Develop understanding of applying legal, contractual and staff management considerations.
    • Interpret and analyse complex management issues.
    • Develop knowledge of horticultural management in a range of sectors in the horticulture industry.
    • Learn from industry experts – our tutors!


      More Information

    Organic Plant Culture - BHT302

    Understand Organic Plant Growing Principles and Practice  
    • Are you enthusiastic about natural plant growing methods?
    • Interested in sustainable gardening?
    • Want to avoid using chemicals?
    • Would like to work in this field?
    For the professional grower but also those interested in a career in organic gardening. Also a great course for the horticultural consultant - the interest in organic growing  and natural chemical free methods is increasing at an amazing speed. 

    Even if you would like to do this for your personal development and your own garden this course will certainly not disappoint.

    • Learn to grow using organic methods and show others how to do the same.
    • Set up gardens for those that lack the time.
    This course shows you how to grow plants naturally, developing a solid understanding of the principles and procedures underlying the cultivation of plants by natural methods, working with the environment and without the use of artificial fertilizers or sprays.
    • An outstanding and extensive foundation course
    • Globally focussed.
    • Regularly revised by experts from both Australia and the UK.

      More Information

    Plant Breeding BHT236

    Join the exciting world of creating new plant varieties   Gain a reputation as a plant breeder - learn how the best cultivars are bred and marketed.    Plant breeding is a bigger industry than most people realize.   In some places, earnings from plant breeding rights can equal or exceed earnings from actually producing plants.    Today's nurseryman needs to understand plant breeding and selection; and to this end, this course is a very valuable and unique course for anyone working in the modern industry.  

    STUDENT'S COMMENT

    "I am very pleased and impressed with the way that ACS recently handled my submission. This included acknowledgement of receipt of my answers, finding a specialist to answer a specific subject enquiry, and a tutor to mark the work in the temporary absence of Katie.

    All three were both professional and helpful, contributing to my enjoyment and acquisition of interesting, useful knowledge from the Plant Breeding course".

     

      More Information

    Plant Pathology BHT206

      Understand Plant Pathology   Diseases in plants are caused by infections due to pathogens which can be bacteria, fungi, viruses and mycoplasmas. Problems which are attributable to the environment or nutritional imbalances are sometimes regarded as disorders. The significance of a disease is usually determined by financial loss in agriculture or aesthetic loss in horticulture.   When a plant is diseased, it may be affected by one, two, or many different problems. It is often difficult to identify what is wrong with a plant clearly, because the problem is, in fact, a combination of problems caused by complex interactions of organisms and the environment.   Plant pathology is about problems in plants caused by physiological damage or irritation at a cellular level. It is concerned with problems which affect parts of the plant cell, leading to malfunctions in the normal processes which occur within the plant.     This course is aimed at those working in agriculture, horticulture, parks management, grounds keeping, as a pest and disease control contractors.     This course would also benefit you greatly if you're currently registered to work with chemical sprays but want to understand more about plant pathology to increase your knowledge and confidence when distributing chemicals in your area.    

      More Information

    Plant Taxonomy BHT344

    Learn about plant taxonomy in this comprehensive 100-hour short course!

    Plant taxonomy is the science of describing, naming, classifying, and identifying plants. Plant taxonomy skills are important for anyone working with plants, particularly in horticulture. 


      More Information

    Practical Horticulture 1 - BHT238

    DISTANCE EDUCATION CAN BE VERY PRACTICAL!   We have spent 39 years making sure that all our courses cover both practical and theoretical skills.   This course though really concentrates on the practical side of horticulture!   And is the answer for anyone who prefers to be even more 'hands-on in their learning   It develops the capacity to perform a range of practical horticulture skills, focusing particularly on plant establishment, soil management, propagation and dealing with problems (pests, diseases and weeds).

      More Information

    Practical Horticulture 2 - BHT323

    Would you love to know more about plants - how to recognise them, how to grow and care for them? 
    • Do you learn better by concentrating on practical skills?
    • Are you  interested in getting out there and getting your hands dirty?
    This horticulture course is the right course for those that love learning more of the hands-on stuff!   Develop practical capabilities in relation to both:
    • the plant classification system, general terminology and identification techniques. 
    • growing techniques including selection, growth and culture for a wide variety of plants.

    This is a stand alone course. It can be taken by itself, or as a complement to Practical Horticulture I


      More Information

    Propagation I - BHT108

    Plant Propagation is Exciting!   Plant Propagation is also a sought after skill within the horticulture industry   Good propagators are hard to find.
    • For those looking to work in the nursery industry
    • For those already in the horticulture industry and wanting to further develop their skills and career prospects
    • For the backyard enthusiast who loves growing plants for free!
      Develop your broad skills in plant propagation. Learn to propagate by:
    • Cuttings
    • Seed
    • Budding and Grafting
    • Layering and Division
    The module is excellent for people who work (or plan to) in the nursery industry, but will be of value to anyone with a broad interest in propagating plants.

      More Information

    Rose Growing BHT31

    Want to be an Expert Rose Grower?  
    • Do you work in the rose growing industry?
    • Are you an enthusiastic backyard rose grower?
    • Do you want to learn more about growing roses in your garden?
    This is arguably the most comprehensive formal training in Rose Growing you are likely to find anywhere.   It is equally relevant to rose enthusiasts whether:
    • Professional rose growers
    • Amateur rose growers
    • Nurserymen
    • Gardeners
    • Cut flower farmer
     Roses are historically one of the most popular ornamental plants in a garden, valued highly for their blooms which many would claim are the most beautiful flowers in existence.   Roses are grown for many reasons, including:
    • As a cut flower
    • As a landscape specimen (garden plant)
    • For perfume extraction
     This course is relevant in all these situations

      More Information

    Seed Propagation BHT237

    Propagating Plants from Seed

    • Do you have problems growing plants from seed?
    • Do you think it is difficult or have many failures?
    • Want to understand all the problems associated with seed and seed propagation?
    • Would you like to collect and save your own seed?
    • Would you like to become an expert at seed propagation?
    This is a course for:
    • Nursery Professionals and nursery workers
    • Seed company staff, plant breeders
    • Environmental or re-vegetation officers
    • Anyone else interested in developing a deeper understanding of seed propagation including the backyard enthusiast.

    Some seeds germinate easily, and others don't. Discover how should seed be stored and how seeds should be treated to encourage germination. How do you get seedlings to survive? Seed propagation can be complex, but doing this course will lay a foundation for working more effectively with all types of seed, to achieve better results wherever you live. You can grow just about anything when you know how to propagate your own plants. It is a valuable part of saving money for your landscape and nursery business. A skill you will have for always.


      More Information

    Soil Management - Horticulture BHT105

    Soil is our life blood!
    • Learn how to care for soils
    • Learn how to identify soil types
    • Understand the fundamentals of soil structure and texture
    • Knowledge of soil is the foundation of good horticulture.
    Without a sound understanding of soils, you simply cannot realise your full potential as a horticulturist or gardener.   Develop your abilities to apply knowledge of soil properties at a management level. Note: This course was written to satisfy requirements for Growing Media and Plant Nutrition Units from Module A of the Royal Horticultural Society (former) Advanced Certificate in Horticulture and Diploma in Horticulture (U.K.) , and Diploma courses accredited with IARC.

      More Information

    Sports Turf Management BHT202

    Learn Specialised Turf Management Techniques

    Caring for turf is a science, and caring for sports turf grasses differs from approaches to other turfs. For instance, sports turf must be more durable than lawns and ornamental grass surfaces. It is exposed to play and can be damaged.

    This course will help you to develop the skills needed to correctly chose the right turf varieties and maintenance techniques for sports turf.
    • Gain specialised turf care knowledge
    • Increase the scope of your business
    • Learn maintenance, greens, sports grounds and cultivation techniques
    This course assumes students possess a basic knowledge of turf care; either through experience or prior study (e.g. our Turf Care course). From there it develops your ability to manage the maintenance of sports turf. It is relevant to the maintenance of all sports turf including golf courses, bowling clubs, playing fields, cricket wickets and other sporting facilities.

      More Information

    Tissue Culture BHT306

    Tissue Culture is one of the most exciting modern developments in horticulture. It started small but has expanded into a huge industry.   Do this course to:
    • Get into this exciting and expanding industry
    • Further develop your interest
    • Increase your employment opportunities 
    • Set up a small operation.
    Tissue culture involves growing plants from very small sections (sometimes microscopic) in a laboratory. It is a propagation method which is being increasingly used. Tissue culture is not appropriate for many plants, but for others such as orchids, some indoor plants and in particular, many new plant varieties, it is a very popular propagation method.

      More Information

    Trees for Rehabilitation

    This could be one of the most important courses you ever take!
    • Are you interested in the environment?
    • Do you want to help rehabilitate polluted or degraded sites?
    • Do you think trees are important to our health and well-being?
    • Did you know that trees can be used to capture and hold pollution within them?
    • Do you want to extend your knowledge of the environment and know how we can help to save it by using and planting trees?
     This course is relevant anywhere and everywhere, including: 
    • Farms
    • National Parks
    • Urban parks
    • Roadsides
    • Mine sites
    • Coastal sites
    Trees are a critical tool in achieving sustainability on farms, maintaining quality environments in cities, rehabilitating degraded sites and reversing environmental problems of all types from carbon pollution to flooding. This course provides insights into these issues, and a practical foundation for using trees to counter such problems. This course complements other courses well, including Arboriculture I and Australian Native Trees.

      More Information

    Tropical Plants BHT234

    Learn to identify and grow a wide variety of different tropical plants
    • Grow them inside or out
    • As garden plants in a mild or warm climate
    • As indoor or greenhouse plants anywhere

      More Information

    Turf and Lawn Grasses

    Study Turf Grass Species and Become an Expert in Turf Grass.

    Learn how to select and use the right turf grasses for the right application.

    • Professional Development for gardeners, greenkeepers, sports ground managers, parks managers, or contractors.
    • Training for an advantage over the competition for anyone starting a career in horticulture or landscaping.

     


      More Information

    Turf Care

    Turf Care is a course for: 

     

    • Gardeners
    • Grounds-keepers
    • Trainee greenkeepers
    • Landscapers
    • Estate managers
    Or anyone needing a solid understanding of establishment and maintenance of  lawns     Learn online - great for the busy worker who wants to extend their knowledge but wants to do it in their own home at their own pace with tutor guidance on a one to one basis.   This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the identification, selection, culture and management of turf for commercial, recreational or home use.   This course can be an excellent foundation for employment as a greenkeeper, groundsman or gardener; or a starting point for further and more advanced studies in turf grass science and management.

      More Information

    Turf Repair and Renovation BHT303

    Find Out Best Practices for Turf Repair

    The turf industry uses a great variety of equipment, both manual and mechanical, for repairing and renovating turf. Some equipment is highly specialised, designed to be used for a particular type of turf like bowling greens, whilst other equipment may have a much wider application.

    This course is specifically designed for people working with turf and for every gardener that has extensive or fine turf areas to care for. The course develops your ability to diagnose and treat problems in turf efficiently.

    • Learn turf repair
    • Renovate old lawns
    • Learn to replace old turf
    • Save money by learning preventative care
    • Extend your business or skills at work.

      More Information

    Weed Control BHT209

    Weed Control - weeds are the bane of our lives as gardeners or gardening professionals!   The more you know about weeds and how to identify them, their life cycles and control methods the easier your job will be.   A great course for:
    • Gardeners
    • Contractors
    • Home gardeners
    • Grounds keepers
    • Horticulturists
    • Agriculturists
    • Environmentalists
    Learn to identify and effectively control more than 100 weeds, to design management strategies and programs and apply control techniques efficiently and safely. In the eight lessons covered in the book you learn about both chemical and non-chemical control methods (mulching, burning, mowing), the use of spray equipment and safety procedures which should be followed.

      More Information

    Wholesale Nursery Management BHT212

    Learn to Manage a Production Nursery

    Professional Development for Nurserymen and Horticulturists


      More Information