NICELY manicured lawns, exotic landscapes and lush gardens are not only lovely to look at, they also speak to the need for the continued training of horticulturists. Here in Jamaica, those desirous of studying the science, technology and business of plant cultivation are able to receive proper training by doing a major in tropical horticulture.

Professor of Horticulture in the University of the West Indies’ Life Sciences Department, Dr Noureddine Benkeblia, explained that having a major in horticulture is becoming more of an asset in today’s global environment.

“Caribbean governments are looking for more persons who specialise in horticulture, so that’s why we are offering this programme,” he said. “Now our students are working in banks and in hotels.”

The professor pointed out that the study of horticulture “includes landscaping, post-harvest handling of crops, food production, irrigation and drainage, and the value chain.”

Majoring in horticulture would allow students to develop a variety of skills that are currently in demand in the agricultural sector. Students usually learn how to be more creative and improve their outdoor ability. These skills are important as Jamaica, like many other countries, seeks to find ways to bolster food security and the demand for naturally processed foods increases.

Why does a major in horticulture make sense?

Because the growth of plants is essential to the existence of humans, there will always be a need for people who know how to develop fruit and vegetable plants and to enhance the physical landscape by managing flowers and other decorative plants. In order to effectively do this, one would have to fully understand the connection between cultivation and natural elements such as soil, water, light and air temperature. Talents garnered through the study of horticulture could be used to help landscape golf clubs, public parks and enhance the aesthetics of single homes or massive housing complexes. Graduates in this field can also start their own landscape and design companies and freelance their services to the growing number of homeowners who want to make their homes just as beautiful on the outside as they are on the inside. These individuals can also help with greenhouse development.

Where in Jamaica can you pursue a degree or courses in horticulture?

University of the West Indies.

What are the jobs available for persons with this major?

Dr Benkeblia pointed out that there are a number of career options for individuals who major in horticulture.

“We have some students who are working in hotels and they are responsible for the landscape of the hotel and flowering, and some others are working at the stadium, because they help to maintain the grass at the stadium. Some others are working at the banks,” he said, while noting that at least two he knows of are currently working at ScotiaBank.

“You have a lot of farmers who apply for loans at the banks and they need someone to assess the applications. Somebody from the economic side can assess the application of this farmer, but the viability of the projects from the technical point of view, in terms of whatever the farmer is suggesting or applying for to plant this crop or that crop; how can you assess unless you did horticulture?” he asked.

Those who major in horticulture can also become landscape technicians, technical writers for home and garden magazines or horticultural sales representatives. They can also become managers or owners of retail garden centres, teachers or lecturers, farm managers, consultants in government or corporate companies, or go into crop production and sales.