Description
This is a three-part curriculum providing foundational horticulture education for entry-level positions. Developed with industry input, it provides practical skills and knowledge that employers value.
The course blends flexible online learning with a hands-on apprenticeship experience, making it ideal for those starting a horticulture career, enhancing existing skills, or launching their own business.
Course Fee
This training program is offered on a sliding scale (self-selected). We strive to make the training accessible and affordable for all Maine residents.
- $600 (Full Price): Suggested for those who can afford the full course fee.
- $300 (50% discount): Suggested for those who can afford 50% of the full course fee. Please use voucher code: 50_mhat
- $150 (75% discount): Suggested for those who can afford 25% of the full course fee. Please use voucher code: 75_mhat
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Please contact us if the course fee is a barrier for participation.
Refund Policy
50% refunds will be available until 15 days after the course begins.
Program Format
Part 1:
- Online training course: An 18 week course with 4 – 5 hours per week of self-paced content on Brightspace, our online learning platform, plus live Q&A session on Zoom.
- Course Orientation
- Introduction to the Industry
- Foundations of Horticulture: Ecology, Botany, Propagation, Soils and Composting
- Food Production: Vegetable Gardening, Garden Maintenance and Food Safety, Small and Tree Fruits,
- Garden Pests and Diseases: Prevention, Identification and Management
- Maine Landscape and Design: Plants for the Maine Landscape, Design and Maintenance
Part 2:
- 200-hour apprenticeship. Participants will be responsible for finding their own apprenticeship, with guidance and assistance from training staff.
Certification
Upon completing the training and apprenticeship, participants will earn the Maine Horticulture Apprentice Training micro-credential and the title of Maine Horticulture Apprentice. Backed by the University of Maine System, this micro-credential certifies to employers that the apprentice has undergone rigorous training and acquired essential skills for a successful career in horticulture.
Program Schedule
Online content released weekly:
- October 21, 2024 – March 17, 2025
- Breaks: December 16 – January 5 and March 3 – 9
Zoom Q&As, two options:
- Watch them live: Tuesdays 6:00 – 7:30 pm
- Watch the recordings
Technology Requirements
This is an online course. An email address, access to a reliable internet connection, the newest version of your web browser and an electronic device (i.e. laptop, desktop, iPad, or tablet) with video/audio capabilities are required to complete this course. We do not recommend using a smartphone to complete classwork.
For more details about the program, please visit our website: Maine Horticulture Apprentice Training or contact us at extension.gardening@maine.edu
Accommodations: If you need reasonable accommodation to participate in this course, please contact us at extension.gardening@maine.edu or 207-581-3188.
