RHS Level 2 Certificate in Horticulture

Introduction

This theory-based qualification covers a wide range of horticultural subjects. It is equally suitable for those wishing to enter the profession and for keen gardeners wishing to have their horticultural knowledge assessed. Many people take the qualification as the first step in changing to a new career in horticulture. There are no formal entry requirements.

The qualification is split into two units:

Horticulture I - Planning, Principles and Production

• The Plant Kingdom
• Plant Propagation
• Outdoor Food Production
• Garden Planning

Horticulture II - Ornamental, Principles and Maintenance

• The Root Environment and Plant Nutrition
• Protected Cultivation
• Plant Selection, Establishment and Maintenance
• Plant Health Problems

Examinations are held in February and June each year, and the units can be taken separately as long as both are passed within a three-year qualifying period.

The unit structure allows great flexibility, and courses can be taken part-time during the day or evening at local colleges and other centres throughout the UK and Ireland. There are also several providers offering a variety of home-study options.

Application is made through an approved college or examination centre, details of which are given below.

Further information

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• Information brochure (145KB Adobe Acrobat)
• Syllabus (139KB Adobe Acrobat pdf)
• Contact details for centres offering courses leading to RHS qualifications (148KB Adobe Acrobat pdf)
• Organisations offering distance-learning options leading to RHS qualifications (95KB Adobe Acrobat pdf)
• Suggested reading list (40KB Adobe Acrobat pdf)
• Examination dates 2009 (78KB Adobe Acrobat pdf)
• Examination fees for candidates (78KB Adobe Acrobat pdf)
• Past examination papers
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Policies and procedures

Further information can be obtained from:

Qualifications Section
RHS Garden Wisley
Woking
Surrey
GU23 6QB
UK
0845 260 9000
E-mail: qualifications@rhs.org.uk