We strongly recommend applicants hold either a relevant Level 2 Horticultural qualification (RHS Qualification) or can demonstrate comparable relevant experience before pursuing a level 3.
Entry requirements
Why choose this course?
If you’re considering the Level 3 RHS in Principles of Horticulture, it is a good choice if you want to develop a strong, recognised foundation in horticulture rather than just learning practical gardening skills. choose it if you want to turn an interest in gardening into a deeper professional understanding of horticulture, giving you both knowledge and a qualification that can help with future employment or further training.
Further information
It is aimed at those progressing in horticultural roles or having a specialist personal interest in the supervision and development of gardens and landscapes, for example public gardens, botanical gardens, heritage gardens, private gardens, maintenance and landscaping along with community green spaces. This qualification meets the needs of the amateur gardeners and professional horticulturists alike.
It also provides learners the opportunity of personal development, including the changing of careers and engagement in their learning and offers an opportunity to develop transferable skills such as problem solving, implementing management plans / programmes, and communication as part of their applied learning.
- Plant science – how plants grow, develop and reproduce.
- Plant identification – recognising a range of plants and understanding their characteristics.
- Soils and growing media – soil structure, nutrients, pH and how to improve growing conditions
- Pruning and plant maintenance – understanding how and when to prune different plants.
- Horticultural tools and equipment – choosing and using equipment safely and effectively
- Growing conditions – understanding how light, temperature, water and other environmental factors affect plants.
- Plant health – identifying common pests, diseases and disorders and understanding how to manage them.
You could use the knowledge you’ve gained to work in areas such as:
- Garden maintenance
- Parks and gardens
- Nurseries and garden centres
- Landscaping
- Estate gardening
- Botanical gardens
- Grounds maintenance
To achieve this qualification, learners must complete and achieve two examinations. These exams are in February and June 2027.
£1415.00 per person