How to Be Greenhouse Horticulture Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 14, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Cause: Greenhouse Horticulture Technician is a job that requires knowledge of greenhouse operations. Effect: Working in this field requires an understanding of the principles and practices of horticulture, such as plant propagation, soil management, pest and disease control, and nutrient management. It also requires knowledge of greenhouse structures and their operating requirements, such as climate control, irrigation, and fertilization.

In addition, technicians are often responsible for monitoring and maintaining the health of the crops they are responsible for, and may also be involved in creating plans for harvesting and post-harvest handling. The successful operation of a greenhouse relies heavily on the skills and expertise of the technician.

Steps How to Become

Obtain High School Diploma or GED. In order to become a greenhouse horticulture technician, you must have a high school diploma or GED.
Take Horticultural Courses. Taking horticultural courses will help to prepare you for the role of greenhouse horticulture technician. Courses such as plant science, botany, and crop production can be taken at a local college or university.
Gain Work Experience. Working in a greenhouse or a nursery is a great way to gain the needed experience and knowledge to become a greenhouse horticulture technician.
Obtain Certification. Certification is not required but it may help to enhance job opportunities. The American Society for Horticultural Science offers certification programs for those interested in advancing their career.
Get a Job. After completing the necessary steps, you can begin your search for a job as a greenhouse horticulture technician. You can look for positions in greenhouses, nurseries, and even research facilities.

As a Greenhouse Horticulture Technician, it is important to stay up-to-date and qualified on the latest technologies and best practices in the industry. This can be done through taking continuing education courses, attending seminars and conferences, and participating in networking events. By understanding the latest advancements in technology and staying abreast of industry trends, a Greenhouse Horticulture Technician can keep their skills current and ensure they are able to provide the best service to their clients.

staying informed of new regulations and policies can help ensure that a Greenhouse Horticulture Technician is compliant with current laws and regulations. Doing so can result in fewer violations and legal issues, which can save time and money.

You may want to check Greenhouse Assistant Manager, Greenhouse Business Manager, and Greenhouse Automation Technician for alternative.

Job Description

Prepare and maintain soil, fertilizers and other growing media for greenhouse crops.
Monitor environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity, in greenhouse.
Inspect plants to identify pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies and take corrective action.
Prune and train plants for height, shape, and quality.
Propagate plants by seed, cuttings and grafting.
Diagnose and treat plant diseases, pests, and other disorders.
Harvest crops at the proper stage of maturity and prepare them for sale.
Operate and maintain irrigation systems, pumps, and other equipment used to grow plants.
Provide technical advice to staff, clients, and customers on the care of plants.
Monitor and control greenhouse gases to ensure optimal growth conditions.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of plant growth and development
Knowledge of plant nutrition and fertilization
Knowledge of pest and disease management
Knowledge of greenhouse and hydroponic growing techniques
Plant propagation techniques
Ability to read and interpret greenhouse plans and diagrams
Ability to troubleshoot and repair greenhouse systems
Ability to safely operate and maintain greenhouse equipment
Understanding of irrigation systems and water management
Ability to follow proper safety protocols and procedures
Knowledge of greenhouse climate control systems
Knowledge of greenhouse automation systems
Knowledge of computer programs related to greenhouse operations
Basic computer skills, including word processing, spreadsheets and database programs
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to work independently or as part of a team
Ability to lift and move heavy objects
Ability to work in a warm and humid environment for extended periods of time

Greenhouse horticulture technicians play an important role in the success of crop production and plant care. One of the most important skills for a successful greenhouse horticulture technician is strong problem-solving skills. For example, a technician must be able to identify problems that arise in the greenhouse, such as pests or disease, and have the ability to come up with creative solutions.

Problem-solving also involves understanding the effects of environmental factors on crop production, and being able to adjust the environment, such as temperature and humidity, to optimize crop growth. technicians need to be knowledgeable about plant structure, nutrition and other growth requirements to ensure the health of plants. Finally, a technician must be able to communicate effectively with other greenhouse staff and management to ensure everyone is on the same page.

By having strong problem-solving skills and being knowledgeable and communicative, a greenhouse horticulture technician can help ensure the success of crop production and plant care.

Greenhouse Irrigation Technician, Greenhouse Design Engineer, and Greenhouse Plant Propagation Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working in a greenhouse environment?
How would you handle the challenges of working with a variety of plants and crops?
What methods do you use to ensure the quality of plants and crops?
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest horticulture techniques and technologies?
Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot an issue with a plant or crop in the greenhouse.
What strategies do you use to promote healthy growth of plants and crops?
How do you manage pests, diseases, and other environmental hazards in the greenhouse?
Describe your experience maintaining a greenhouse facility and its equipment.
How do you ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards?
What steps do you take to foster a productive and efficient work environment?

Common Tools in Industry

Pruning Shears. Used to cut and trim branches and stems of plants. (e. g. Felco Pruning Shears)
Loppers. Used to prune branches and stems thicker than those that can be managed with pruning shears. (e. g. Fiskars Loppers)
Hand Trowel. Used to dig and move soil and small plants. (e. g. Radius Garden Hand Trowel)
Spade. Used to dig larger holes and move larger amounts of soil or plants. (e. g. Truper Spade)
Watering Can. Used to water plants, with adjustable nozzles for different types of water sprays. (e. g. Haws Watering Can)
Garden Hose. Used for extended watering of plants and gardens. (e. g. Flexzilla Garden Hose)
Sprayer. Used to apply fertilizer, pesticide and other liquid plant treatments. (e. g. Hudson Sprayer)
Rake. Used to level soil, remove debris, and spread mulch or soil amendments. (e. g. Ames Steel Rake)
Shovel. Used to dig deeper holes, move larger amounts of soil, and transplant trees and shrubs. (e. g. True Temper Shovel)
Wheelbarrow. Used to move large amounts of soil, mulch, compost, and other materials around the garden or greenhouse. (e. g. Jackson Wheelbarrow)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society for Horticultural Science
American Association of Nurserymen
Association of Professional Landscape Designers
American Community Gardening Association
American Horticultural Therapy Association
American Society for Horticulture Therapy
Greenhouse Growers Association
International Plant Propagators Society
Professional Landcare Network
Sustainable Agriculture Network

We also have Greenhouse Production Manager, Greenhouse Operations Manager, and Greenhouse Senior Technician jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Greenhouse. A structure with transparent or translucent walls and roof that functions to create a controlled environment for the growth of plants.
Horticulture. The science and art of cultivating fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants.
Plant Propagation. The process of creating new plants from existing ones by asexual or sexual reproduction.
Plant Nutrition. The process of providing essential nutrients to plants in the form of fertilizers or other amendments.
Soil Science. The study of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils and the effects of soil management practices on plant growth.
Plant Pathology. The study of diseases of plants, their causes, effects, and control.
Plant Breeding. The process of selecting and crossing plants to produce desired characteristics in their progeny.
Irrigation Management. The management of water resources for the purpose of crop production.
Climate Control. The manipulation of environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and light levels, to create a suitable environment for plant growth.
Greenhouse Pest Management. The practice of controlling pests in greenhouses using chemical, biological, or cultural methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Greenhouse Horticulture Technician?

A Greenhouse Horticulture Technician is a specialized role that involves caring for plants in a greenhouse setting. This includes tending to plants, making sure they are properly irrigated and fertilized, controlling pests and diseases, and ensuring the environment is optimal for growth.

What kind of skills do I need to be a Greenhouse Horticulture Technician?

To be a successful Greenhouse Horticulture Technician, you must have a strong knowledge of plant biology and horticulture principles. You should also be familiar with plant nutrition and pest control methods, as well as have good communication and organizational skills.

How much can I expect to make as a Greenhouse Horticulture Technician?

The salary for a Greenhouse Horticulture Technician will vary based on experience, geographic location, and employer. Generally, the median salary for this position is around $40,000 per year.

What degree do I need to become a Greenhouse Horticulture Technician?

Although some employers may require a Bachelor's Degree in Horticulture, most positions only require a high school diploma or equivalent. However, completing an internship or apprenticeship program related to horticulture is recommended for those interested in this field.

What types of plants do Greenhouse Horticulture Technicians work with?

Greenhouse Horticulture Technicians typically work with a variety of plants, including vegetables, fruits, flowers, shrubs, and trees. They may also work with ornamental plants and even aquatic plants.