Horticultural Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of cultivation, the role of a Horticultural Manager has never been more crucial.

As the world shifts towards sustainability, the demand for proficient individuals who can guide, develop, and preserve our horticultural landscape intensifies.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from a Horticultural Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the profile of the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of horticultural management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Horticultural Manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Horticultural Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Horticultural Managers are tasked with overseeing the growth and development of plants and crops, they also manage and supervise horticultural staff members.

Their work encompasses a broad spectrum of activities from planning and design to hands-on plant care.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Manage and supervise the daily operations of a horticultural site, including planning and design
• Oversee and coordinate plant selection and planting activities
• Apply knowledge of plant diseases and pests to protect and maintain the health of plants
• Ensure the implementation of fertilizing and irrigation programs
• Monitor and manage the cultivation and harvesting of plants and crops
• Lead and train horticultural staff, ensuring they adhere to safety and quality standards
• Implement and maintain appropriate record keeping for plant cultivation, maintenance, and budgeting
• Maintain a high level of knowledge about current horticultural practices and market trends
• Communicate with suppliers, clients, or landscape architects to ensure the successful implementation of projects

 

Horticultural Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a knowledgeable and dedicated Horticultural Manager to oversee all horticultural operations.

The Horticultural Manager’s responsibilities include planning and managing planting schedules, supervising staff, maintaining inventory, and ensuring that all plants are cared for properly.

Our ideal candidate is someone who has a deep understanding of plant biology and is able to apply this knowledge to ensure the growth and health of a variety of plant species.

The ultimate goal of a Horticultural Manager is to ensure our green spaces are attractive, healthy, and conducive to promoting biodiversity.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement horticulture plans and schedules
• Oversee the maintenance of gardens, greenhouses, and other horticultural environments
• Manage a team of horticulture staff and provide training as necessary
• Monitor plant health and implement pest and disease control measures
• Ensure compliance with local and federal regulations related to horticulture
• Manage budgets and resource allocation
• Coordinate with suppliers and vendors to maintain inventory
• Work with clients or stakeholders to design and implement landscaping projects

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Horticultural Manager or similar role
• BSc degree in Horticulture, Botany or relevant field
• Knowledge of plant biology and horticultural techniques
• Familiarity with landscaping design
• Understanding of pest and disease control measures
• Leadership and management skills
• Good organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Horticultural Manager
• Work Environment: Outdoors with frequent visits to greenhouses and other horticultural environments. Some travel may be required for site visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Horticulture or Operations Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Horticultural Manager Do?

Horticultural Managers are involved in overseeing all aspects of plant cultivation and growth in a variety of settings such as nurseries, greenhouses, parks, and gardens.

They can work for both public and private institutions or they can run their own horticultural businesses.

They are responsible for planning and managing the growth of plants, flowers, trees, and shrubs.

This includes tasks such as selecting the right plants for the right environment, planning planting schedules, and ensuring proper care for plant health.

Horticultural Managers often collaborate with landscape architects or designers for planning and implementing landscaping projects.

They are also tasked with pest management and disease control to ensure the health and well-being of the plants.

They need to continuously monitor environmental conditions and make necessary adjustments to ensure optimal growth.

This might include modifying watering schedules, adjusting light exposure, or adding specific nutrients to the soil.

In addition, Horticultural Managers often oversee staff members and are responsible for hiring, training, and managing teams of gardeners, groundskeepers, and other horticultural workers.

They also need to manage budgets, keep records, and ensure safety regulations are met.

Horticultural Managers must also stay informed about the latest research and developments in the field of horticulture to improve cultivation practices and achieve better results.

 

Horticultural Manager Qualifications and Skills

A Horticultural Manager should have a variety of technical skills, management skills and a deep understanding of plants and their growth conditions, such as:

• Deep understanding of plant biology, soil science, and the nutritional needs of a wide variety of plants.
• Strong management skills to efficiently manage all operations, including planting, cultivation, pruning, pest control, and harvesting.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills to swiftly identify and resolve any issues that may arise with plant health or cultivation processes.
• Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with and direct a team of gardeners or workers.
• Ability to create and manage budgets, schedule work, and track and report on progress using strong organizational skills.
• Proficient with using tools and machinery common in the horticulture industry.
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations regarding horticulture practices, and the ability to ensure operations are compliant.
• Ability to perform physical tasks, such as lifting heavy items, bending, or standing for long periods of time.

 

Horticultural Manager Experience Requirements

Horticultural Managers typically start their career journey with a degree in Horticulture, Botany, or a related field.

This education is usually accompanied by hands-on field experience in the form of internships or summer jobs in nurseries, greenhouses or farms.

Entry-level roles such as Horticulturist, Greenhouse Assistant, or Landscape Designer provide practical exposure to the field and are often the stepping stones to a managerial position.

These roles usually require 1 to 3 years of experience.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience may have gained proficiency in plant care, landscape design, pest management, and operating garden machinery.

Experience in these areas is generally obtained in positions such as Senior Horticulturist, Landscape Architect, or Nursery Supervisor.

Candidates aiming for a Horticultural Manager role should ideally have more than 5 years of relevant experience.

This experience can be accumulated through roles that include managing a team, overseeing a garden or landscape project, or supervising a nursery or greenhouse.

Additional qualifications such as a Master’s degree in Horticulture or a related field, or certifications like Certified Horticulturist (CH) or Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH) can enhance the credibility of a Horticultural Manager.

Knowledge of sustainable gardening practices and experience with organic farming can also be beneficial.

Proficiency in using horticulture-specific software for tasks like irrigation management and landscape designing can also be an added advantage.

 

Horticultural Manager Education and Training Requirements

To become a Horticultural Manager, an individual typically needs a bachelor’s degree in horticulture, botany, or a related field.

This coursework includes studies in plant identification, soil science, pest management, and business management.

In addition to academic training, practical experience in horticulture is highly beneficial.

This could be gained through internships, summer jobs, or work-study programs in nurseries, botanical gardens, or agricultural extension agencies.

Many Horticultural Managers also hold a master’s degree in horticulture or a related field, which can provide advanced training in plant physiology, landscape design, and horticultural technology.

Certifications are not typically required, but they can demonstrate a candidate’s expertise and dedication.

For instance, the American Society for Horticultural Science offers a Certified Horticulturist credential.

Moreover, Horticultural Managers should have excellent knowledge in using various types of horticultural equipment and machinery.

Training in the operation of this equipment, as well as safety procedures, is typically provided on-the-job.

Continuing education is also important in this field, as it helps a Horticultural Manager stay updated on the latest research, techniques, and regulations related to plant cultivation and care.

This can often be achieved through professional development workshops, conferences, and courses.

 

Horticultural Manager Salary Expectations

A Horticultural Manager earns an average salary of $69,074 (USD) per year.

The exact amount can fluctuate depending on the individual’s years of experience, education, location, and the size and type of the hiring company.

 

Horticultural Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Horticultural Manager need?

Horticultural Managers should have strong knowledge of plant varieties and their specific needs.

They should have excellent organizational skills to manage operations and staff within the department.

Interpersonal and communication skills are also important, as they will often need to deal with clients, suppliers, and other departments.

Furthermore, the role often requires the ability to operate machinery and handle tools, so practical skills are necessary.

 

Do Horticultural Managers need a degree?

Although not always required, many Horticultural Managers hold a degree in a field related to horticulture, agriculture, botany, or environmental science.

Practical experience in horticulture can also be beneficial for this role.

Some roles may require certification in horticultural management or a related field.

 

What should you look for in a Horticultural Manager resume?

A Horticultural Manager’s resume should demonstrate a solid understanding and experience in horticulture or a related field.

Look for evidence of successful management of horticultural operations, including supervision of staff, maintenance of plant health, and operational efficiency.

Any certifications related to horticulture or management can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Horticultural Manager?

A good Horticultural Manager is passionate about plants and the environment.

They should have excellent problem-solving skills to deal with issues such as pests, diseases, and budget constraints.

Good managers should also be strong leaders who can inspire and direct a team.

They should be well-organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable with the physical demands of the job.

 

How can a Horticultural Manager contribute to environmental sustainability?

Horticultural Managers play a significant role in environmental sustainability through their choices in plant selection, use of resources, and pest management strategies.

They can promote the use of native plants, implement water and energy conservation measures, and employ organic or environmentally friendly pest control methods.

They can also contribute to biodiversity by maintaining a variety of plant species.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved deep into the green world of a horticultural manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about planting seeds.

It’s about cultivating a vibrant landscape, one green space at a time.

With our comprehensive horticultural manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to branch out.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job listings or sprucing up your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every plant is a part of a larger ecosystem.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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