Empower Your Team with Essential Tools for Excellence
This online, expert-led certification brings a new level of learning to your team by offering essential skills for all entry-level or developing greenhouse staff members.
Cost-effective, Turn-key Training Designed by Experts
Whether you need assistance onboarding new employees quickly, or increasing skills within your team, the AmericanHort Greenhouse Technician Certification provides an affordable way to develop your best workers and help your employees grow professionally.
The online, flexible format is designed for convenience and allows you to schedule your workforce training during a time that works for your production cycle.
Certification Program Highlights
Ideal For:
- New or entry-level employees with little to no horticulture experience
- Technicians or support staff looking to build foundational skills
- Individuals interested in furthering their greenhouse career
- Managers responsible for training their team
Focus: Foundation & Science
- Foundational scientific knowledge about plant biology, greenhouse workflows, and basic plant care
- Essential greenhouse tasks such as watering, fertilization, pest monitoring, and environmental controls
- Emphasizes practical skills for day-to-day greenhouse operations to improve efficiency and plant health
Learning Objectives:
- Learn the basic principles of plant growth, nutrition, and pest identification
- Gain practical skills to support daily greenhouse tasks, such as watering, fertilization, and environmental control
- Understand how greenhouse processes work at a fundamental level to improve efficiency and plant health
- Develop a strong foundation in plant science and greenhouse operations
Training Format:
This certification is comprised of three training modules that include:
- Videos with in-depth explanations of foundational skills from industry experts
- Pre- and post-tests to evaluate knowledge for each course
- Post-module test to assess comprehension
- Skills assessments to gauge practical proficiency
- Skills checklist for managers to review
- Final exam
Having this certificate makes me feel I am better prepared to do my job.
- Ann Reiner, Scotts Miracle-Gro
Pilot Test Participant
“As a person without formal training in horticulture I learned a lot of things and can connect to my everyday job. I would think about what I heard during the courses while I was working in the greenhouse. I definitely think taking this course will help me do my job better.”
Olivia D, North Creek Nurseries
Greenhouse Technician Certification Program Participant
“I recommend this certification to anyone in the green industry – from greenhouse growers to garden center employees, and nursery growers. I think everyone would find the information in this certification to be helpful.”
Cheri Heffernan, Cheri’s Touch Interiorscapes
Greenhouse Technician Certification Participant
“This certification does a good job marrying book learning with hands on learning. As a supervisor, one of the benefits I see from putting a new hire through this certification is it provides clear explanation of how to do things, and I don’t have to take up the time of other growers with more experience while I explain things to a new team member.”
Lee Nye, DS Cole
Greenhouse Technician Pilot Certification Participant
“This course has a ton of valuable information. The speakers are great. I am really impressed with the quality of the program.”
Karen Schneck, Scotts Miracle-Gro
Greenhouse Technician Certification Participant
“Without a doubt I recommend others, at all levels, take this certification. It is a great refresher for those who have been in the industry, and a good baseline for those who are newer to the grower position. There is a lot of important information discussed in these courses.”
Kyle Ferrantella, DeGroot Inc
Greenhouse Technician Certification Participant
“This is a great step for the industry. More like a leap.”
Chris Knezetic, Qualitree
Greenhouse Technician Certification Participant
Learning Modules
This certification course provides three learning modules, each with specific courses designed to fit the focus and course objectives, enhancing participants’ knowledge and overall skills.
Module One: Plant Fundamentals
The courses in this module cover the essentials of greenhouse growing and build a solid foundation in greenhouse growing skills to optimize plant health and yield. Specifically, participants will explore the intricacies of plant cells—delving into the science of photosynthesis and understanding the significance of growing media to unlock the secrets of effective fertilizer use.
Courses
Plant Cells
Course Instructor: Yiyun Lin, The Ohio State University
Achieve insight into the inner workings of plants on a cellular level. This course is the first in the series focused on plant science. The course starts with a dive into the basic elements of plant cells and their functions. By the end of the course technicians can begin to establish the knowledge needed to fully grasp the nuts and bolts of plant science.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the basics of a plant cell
- Understand plant cellular structure and function as it pertains to plant health
- Uncover the foundation of the process of photosynthesis at the cellular level”
Photosynthesis
Being able to identify the processes of photosynthesis is fundamental for gaining a deep understanding of how plants function at a cellular level. In turn, allowing the greenhouse technician to use the skills gained though this training and on-the-job to better visualize crop health standards.
Learning Objective
- Be able to breakdown and describe the processes of photosynthesis throughout the entire plant lifecycle
Course Instructor: Yiyun Lin, The Ohio State University
Building Substrate for Greenhouse Production
Course Instructor: Gladys Opiyo, Profile Products
Soil is a fundamental aspect of plant science. Technicians will examine soil structure, as it relates to general plant function and more specifically focus on soil for greenhouse plant production.
Learning Objective
- Define the major classifications of soil by size
- Recognize soil’s role in plant health and overall plant nutrition
- Be able to create a soil/soilless medium for common greenhouse plants
Basics of Plant Nutrients
This course will delve deeper into the science behind the mechanisms that are at work inside a plant. To keep a plant alive, it requires not only sunshine, water, and air, but nutrients too. In this course you will explore what nutrients are involved in the basic functions of plants.
Learning Objective
- Understand the essentials of plant nutrition (macro/micronutrients)
- Recognize various nutritional deficiencies in plants
- Assist section growers with performing fertilization requirements for certain crops
Course Instructor: Cari Peters, JR Peters
Plant Nomenclature, Classification, Cultivars, Trademarks, and Patents
Employees working in the greenhouse are often asked to perform specific tasks related to plant families. Technicians are responsible for knowing which plants belong to which family, and what part of the plant (i.e. roots, stems, auxiliary bud, etc.) may need attention. This course will dive into nomenclature and classification in order to help technicians be more successful on the job.
Learning Objective
- Understand general plant classification and nomenclature
- Build a working knowledge of botanical names
- Distinguish between various hierarchies of plant families, cultivars, etc.
- Locate specific parts of the plant in relation to job function
Course Instructor: Kim Shearer, Morton Arboretum
Module Two: Plant Care
This module teaches greenhouses technicians the essentials skills needed on the job and ensures growers are prioritizing safety protocols. Participants learn pest scouting techniques, and how to decipher pesticide labels, prioritize safety through learning about Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and refine pesticide application procedures.
Courses
Basics of Pest Scouting
Scouting for pests in the greenhouse is vital to the success of any Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program. Knowing how, why and when to look for certain pests will all be covered in this course.
Learning Objective
- Explain the difference between pest populations and how it relates to control decisions
- Begin to understand the terminology used in Integrated Pest Management programs
Course Instructor: Broch Martindale, Corteva Agriscience
Reading and understanding pesticide labels
Often it is said that “the label is the law,” this phrase is vital to using pest control tools effectively. Interpreting the critical information on a pesticide label is paramount to legally and successfully mixing and applying control products to defend a crop against pests.
Learning Objective
- Identify critical information on pesticide labels and understand levels of toxicity
Course Instructor: Andrew Jeffers, Clemson University
Personal Protective Equipment in the Greenhouse
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is one of the most crucial aspects to workplace safety. One challenge for many technicians can be what PPE to use when. This course discusses in detail the proper PPE needed for specific situations. Technicians will also learn where to find vital information needed to use PPE effectively.
Learning Objective
- Differentiate the types of PPE needed for greenhouse growers
- Recognize what PPE is required based off of situational job responsibilities
Course Instructor: Erfran Vafaie, BioWorks
Proper Pesticide application procedures, Part 1
Pesticides are tools that growers can use to combat many of the issues that arise during a plant’s growing cycle. As a part of a well-developed Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan, pesticides can be broken down into different categories or classes which serve various purposes for the management of crops. Developing a better understanding of these methods are important to implementing controls in an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan.
Learning Objective
- Identify the classes of chemicals in an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan
- Compare modes of action for common pest control products
- Be able to differentiate between pest controls to implement a successful IPM program
Course Instructor: Michael Brownbridge, Bioworks
Proper Pesticide application procedures, Part 2
In part two of the course Proper Pesticide Application Procedures technicians will begin to demonstrate a practical understanding of pesticide application and how pesticides operate in different environmental conditions. Techniques on how to properly use common sprayers and how chemicals interact with the plant will be covered.
Learning Objective
- Identify common tools used in greenhouse production for applying pest control products
- Understand the mechanics of correct spraying techniques for pest control
Course Instructor: Michael Brownbridge, Bioworks
Module Three: Environmental Controls and Plant Essentials
Module three greenhouse technicians to make informed decisions, excel in plant care and contribute to high quality horticultural practices. From exploring environmental factors that impact plant growth, to mastering knowledge of irrigation systems, refining plant maintenance techniques, and knowing how to select top-tire plants for shipment, this training provides the know-how to be a confident grower.
Courses
Environmental Factors Influencing Plant Growth
Plants can thrive in all sorts of conditions, from the extreme temperatures of the desert to the lush habitats of the rainforest. This course teaches the fundamentals of maintaining proper site conditions and explains different aspects of controlled environments and how these conditions affect plant growth.
Learning Objectives
- Understand how abiotic and biotic factors affect plant growth
- Recognize how greenhouse conditions relate to plant health and how to make changes to optimize growth
Course Instructor: Don Spence-Dümmen Orange
Irrigation systems & Fundamentals of Assessing Soil Moisture
Water regimens are vital to plant success and are often the responsibility of a greenhouse technician. During this course you will study the fundamentals of maintaining proper site conditions, and how different aspects of controlled environments impact plant growth. Proper tools and techniques will be demonstrated to better understand the functioning of irrigation systems and how to troubleshoot potential moisture issues.
Learning Objectives
- Build technician fluency in workplace irrigation terminology for more effective job performance
- Understand how irrigation systems impact plant health
Course Instructor: Matt Foertmeyer, Foertmeyer & Sons Greenhouse
Plant Maintenance
Many greenhouse-grown plants require a certain amount of pruning, weed management, and overall maintenance to remain healthy. This course focuses on the fundamental planting procedures, weed management practices, and pruning techniques used in greenhouse production.
Learning Objectives
- Introduce the basic pruning practices for the most common greenhouse crops
- Develop a working knowledge of planting procedures for plants at various stages of development
- Understand the importance of weed management
- Learn best weed management best practices
Course Instructor: Dr. Bodie Pennisi, University of Georgia
How to Select Quality Plants
Plant selection in the greenhouse environment is a crucial aspect of the shipping process. This course covers key factors such as plant health, proper handling techniques and packaging methods that ensure plants remain in optimal condition during transportation.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the importance of quality control measures in the greenhouse to enhance overall plant vitality.
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of the criteria for assessing plant quality in a greenhouse.
- Learn effective techniques for handling plants to minimize stress and maintain health during shipment.
Course Instructor: Dave Holley, Moss Greenhouses
How is this different from HortCred?
HortCred is a micro-credential program that allows you to advance knowledge in a variety of topics across the horticulture spectrum
Greenhouse Technician Certification Pricing
Make the most of your training investment, purchase all three modules in a bundle for the greatest savings.
Enroll now in the AmericanHort Greenhouse Technician Certification Program.
Not an AmericanHort member? Become a member today and save even more.
| Member Level | Price Per Module | Bundle Price |
|---|---|---|
| AmericanHort Premium Member | $249 | $639 |
| AmericanHort Member | $299 | $749 |
| Non-Member | $499 | $1,249 |