AmericanHort Launches New Greenhouse Technician Certification

Jennifer Zurko

AmericanHort announced the debut of the Greenhouse Technician Certification, a significant step in horticultural training tailored to meet the unique needs of the greenhouse sector. It’s designed to assist greenhouse owners to train grower teams and enhance their bottom line by implementing best growing practices. This initial effort is the first in a series of specialized online certification programs planned by AmericanHort.

The certification was developed in collaboration with an advisory group of industry leaders in response to the increasing demand for accessible, specialized education in greenhouse growing.

Ken Fisher, CEO of AmericanHort, highlights the importance of this effort: “This is a significant opportunity for our community to foster a deeper understanding of greenhouse operations. The objective of this certification is to provide useful tools for greenhouse owners to use in training their associates and provide growers with the practical knowledge and skills they need to succeed on the job. We are committed to expanding future certification programs to cover all industry segments, addressing the crucial training needs of the horticulture sector.”

Designed as a self-paced, comprehensive online course, the Greenhouse Technician Certification offers video demonstrations from seasoned industry experts. It aims to equip employees with specific, actionable knowledge, ensuring confidence and efficiency in their roles. The structure includes pre-test assessments, module tests and a final exam, for successful learning. A hands-on component is also available for enrollees to use with their supervisor to demonstrate their improved skills.

Key learning topics in this certification include:

■ Plant anatomy and nomenclature

■ Essential plant nutrition

■ Soil taxonomy

■ Environmental factors influencing plant growth

■ Fundamentals of pest management and scouting

■ Proper planting and pruning techniques for common ornamental crops

■ Irrigation fundamentals

There are three modules in the Greenhouse Technician Certification with four or five courses per module. Each course is approximately 30 minutes long. To receive the certification, a participant must pass all three modules and the final exam. Certification is valid for two years from date of completion and can be maintained through continuing education credits received by attending qualifying AmericanHort educational programs.

This certification is ideal for:

■ Individuals without formal education in horticulture, aiming to increase their knowledge and confidence in greenhouse operations

■ Greenhouse team members needing fundamental technician skills

■ Supervisors responsible for training new growers

The AmericanHort Greenhouse Technician Certification is available online now.

To learn more visit AmericanHort.org/GT, email Certification@AmericanHort.org or call (614) 487-1117. GT