Horticulture Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an ever-evolving world, the focus on horticulture managers is growing stronger.

With each passing season, the demand for skilled professionals who can cultivate, enhance, and protect our horticultural landscapes grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a horticulture manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of horticulture management,

You’re in the right place.

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

Let’s dive right into it.

Horticulture Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Horticulture Managers oversee the planning, development, and maintenance of gardens, parks, greenhouses, and nurseries.

They are responsible for a variety of tasks, including the management of plants and soil, pest control, and the overall health and beauty of outdoor environments.

Horticulture Managers typically carry out the following duties and responsibilities:

• Develop and implement horticultural plans and schedules
• Supervise the planting, fertilizing, harvesting, and pruning activities
• Monitor plant health and soil conditions
• Utilize knowledge of plant diseases and pests to implement effective control measures
• Manage greenhouse operations, including temperature and humidity regulation
• Train and supervise horticultural staff
• Order and maintain inventory of horticultural supplies
• Coordinate with landscape architects and designers to implement landscape plans
• Ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations
• Communicate with clients, suppliers, and staff effectively to ensure smooth operations
• Conduct research to improve horticultural practices and crop yields

 

Horticulture Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a knowledgeable and enthusiastic Horticulture Manager to oversee and manage all horticulture activities within our organization.

This includes planning, designing, and maintaining plant collections and landscapes, supervising horticulture staff, and ensuring the health and aesthetic appeal of our gardens and green spaces.

Our ideal candidate possesses a strong knowledge of botany and horticulture techniques, with experience in managing teams and projects.

The role of the Horticulture Manager is to cultivate an environment that promotes growth, beauty, and ensures the maintenance of plant health and sustainability.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute horticultural activities, including planting, pruning, watering, and fertilizing
• Oversee the design and maintenance of landscapes and gardens
• Manage a team of horticulturists and gardeners
• Ensure plant health and pest management
• Prepare and manage horticulture budgets
• Develop and implement horticulture training programs for staff
• Collaborate with other departments for plant-related events and exhibitions
• Ensure compliance with horticulture and environmental regulations
• Manage plant records and databases
• Monitor and report on horticulture project progress

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience in a horticultural role
• Strong knowledge of botany and horticulture techniques
• Experience in managing teams and horticulture projects
• Familiarity with pest and disease management
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions
• Physical fitness to perform gardening tasks
• Degree in Horticulture, Botany or related field

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Horticulture Manager
• Work Environment: This role primarily involves working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. You may be required to work weekends, holidays, and during peak seasons.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Horticulture or similar.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $85,000 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 Horticulture Manager Do?

Horticulture Managers are typically employed by botanical gardens, farms, greenhouses, landscaping companies, or nurseries.

Some also work as consultants for private homeowners or businesses, providing advice on the best plants to grow in a given environment.

They are responsible for overseeing all aspects of plant cultivation and management.

This includes planting, pruning, watering, and fertilizing plants, as well as diagnosing and treating plant diseases and pests.

Horticulture Managers also work closely with other horticultural staff, training them in plant care techniques and supervising their work.

They plan and implement planting schedules, ensuring that plants are sown or transplanted at the optimal time for their growth and development.

Their job also involves making decisions about the best types of plants to grow, based on factors like climate, soil conditions, and the needs or preferences of clients or the public.

Horticulture Managers also manage budgets, order supplies, and ensure that all work complies with environmental and safety regulations.

They may be involved in garden design, creating aesthetically pleasing and functional outdoor spaces.

This can involve choosing the right plants for a given location, arranging them for maximum visual impact, and integrating non-plant elements like paths, benches, and water features.

Finally, Horticulture Managers often have a role in public education, giving talks or demonstrations about plant care and the importance of plants to the ecosystem.

 

Horticulture Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient horticulture manager should have the skills and qualifications that align with the requirements of the job, such as:

• Extensive knowledge of horticultural practices, including planting, pruning, and pest control, to ensure the health and appearance of the plants and landscapes under their care.
• Strong leadership and management skills to supervise and coordinate work teams, ensuring tasks are completed on schedule and to a high standard.
• Good communication skills to liaise with clients, suppliers, and staff, discussing plans and providing clear instructions.
• Problem-solving abilities to deal with issues such as disease outbreaks or irrigation problems, identifying the causes and implementing effective solutions.
• Planning and organizational skills for developing planting schedules, managing budgets, and maintaining inventory records.
• A keen eye for design and aesthetics to create pleasing landscape arrangements.
• Knowledge of safety standards and regulations to ensure a safe working environment for staff.
• Physical stamina as the role can be physically demanding, often requiring the manager to be involved in field work.

 

Horticulture Manager Experience Requirements

Horticulture Managers are typically expected to have at least a bachelor’s degree in horticulture, botany, agriculture, or a related field.

This education provides a fundamental understanding of plant biology, soil science, and pest management.

Entry-level Horticulture Managers may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often acquired through internships, part-time roles, or practical work experience during their studies.

They may have worked in roles such as a Horticulture Assistant, Landscape Technician, or Greenhouse Assistant.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have a more in-depth understanding of plant cultivation, disease management, and landscape design.

They may have gained this experience in roles like Horticulture Specialist, Greenhouse Manager, or Landscape Designer.

Those with more than 5 years of experience typically have a strong background in managing teams and projects.

They may have experience in planning and implementing large-scale landscaping projects, managing nurseries, or supervising garden centers.

This level of experience may qualify them for senior managerial roles or consultation positions within the horticulture industry.

Continued professional development and staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in horticulture technology and practices is also crucial for progression in this field.

 

Horticulture Manager Education and Training Requirements

Horticulture Managers typically require a bachelor’s degree in horticulture, botany, or a related field.

The coursework for these degree programs often includes plant biology, soil science, pest management, and greenhouse management.

In addition to formal education, hands-on experience in a gardening, landscaping, or nursery setting is highly beneficial.

This provides practical understanding of plant cultivation, landscape design, and pest control methods.

Some positions may prefer Horticulture Managers with a master’s degree in horticulture or a related field, especially for roles involving research or teaching.

Certifications are not usually required, but certain roles may benefit from industry-specific certifications such as Certified Horticulturist or Certified Professional Horticulturist.

These demonstrate a candidate’s advanced knowledge and commitment to the field.

Continuing education is also crucial in this role, as staying up-to-date with the latest horticultural techniques, pest management methods, and advancements in plant science is essential for success.

 

Horticulture Manager Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Horticulture Manager is $59,026 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may depend on the level of expertise, years of experience, location, and the size of the company or organization they are employed with.

 

Horticulture Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Horticulture Manager need?

A Horticulture Manager should have a thorough understanding of plant biology, soil science, and pest management.

They should be well-versed in using various horticultural tools and equipment.

In addition, they need good communication and leadership skills to manage a team effectively.

They should also have good analytical skills for problem-solving and decision making.

 

Do Horticulture Managers need a degree?

Yes, typically Horticulture Managers need a Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Botany, or a related field.

A Master’s degree or special certifications could make candidates more attractive in the job market.

Practical experience in horticulture or a related field can also be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Horticulture Manager resume?

Check for a degree in a related field like Horticulture or Botany and look for practical experience in managing horticultural projects.

Knowledge about plant biology, soil science, and pest management is crucial.

Leadership experience is also important, as they’ll be managing a team.

Additional certifications related to horticulture can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Horticulture Manager?

A good Horticulture Manager is passionate about plants and has an excellent understanding of horticulture.

They should have strong leadership skills and be able to guide their team effectively.

Attention to detail is crucial for monitoring plant health and diagnosing issues.

The ability to work under different weather conditions and physical stamina can also be important.

 

What are the daily duties of a Horticulture Manager?

On a typical day, a Horticulture Manager might inspect plants and soil, determine plant growing conditions, manage pest control, plan and manage planting schedules, and supervise garden workers.

They might also need to handle administrative tasks, manage budgets, and maintain records.

Communication with other departments or clients is also part of their daily duties.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the heart of what it means to be a horticulture manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about nurturing plants.

It’s about cultivating a green future, one plant at a time.

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

But why stop there?

Grow further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating meticulously detailed listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every plant is part of a larger ecosystem.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

How to Become a Horticulture Manager (Complete Guide)

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