Career development in horticulture - An Australian perspective

Horticulture is defined as the science, technology, business and management of intensive plant cultivation for human use. Three categories of career have emerged in recent years – that of food production horticulture, amenity/environmental horti-culture, and the associated support and service sector operating within individual supply chains. Food production careers incorporate those businesses involved in the production and processing of horticultural commodities such as fruit, vegetables, and other fresh and processed products, whereas amenity/environmental horticulture careers involve the production, sale and management of plants used for environmental, recreational and leisure purposes. Careers associated with the support services involve supplying the non-plant products and services such as manufacturing, programs and activities, sales and service, and research, education and training. The paper explores the availability of trained horticulturists in the service and vocational components.