Course overview
This RHS Certificate in Practical Horticulture (Level 2) qualification develops the hands-on skills you need to carry out essential horticultural tasks with confidence, across a variety of professional environments.
This course supports career progression across a range of industries, from professional gardening and landscaping to plant production and garden retail. This horticulture qualification covers practical skills and knowledge required across the units. Gaining this qualification also provides ideal grounding for those starting out in entry-level horticultural roles.
This practical course involves moderate to strenuous physical work including soil cultivation, planting, pruning and use of small, powered horticultural machinery. You will also be handling soil, organic matter, fertilisers and sharp tools and equipment.
If you are looking to build upon and expand your existing knowledge as an amateur gardener then this course will also be suitable for you. We strongly recommend completing the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth and Development (theory) course before progressing on to the RHS Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture (practical) course.
This course is examined with an online theory paper and two practical assessments.
You will learn
- Identification of a wide range of garden plants, weeds, pests, diseases and disorders
- The practical skills in ground preparation and the establishment of plants
- Professional plant propagation skills
- Plant health monitoring and identification
- How to implement garden maintenance plans and healthcare plans
- How to care for and prune a range of plants
- Skills required for garden feature care and maintenance
- How to establish and maintain grassed areas
Certificate in Practical Horticulture – Royal Horticultural Society
Reference: 61004868
View the RHS qualification specification here.
A genuine interest in horticulture is essential. You will need at least five GCSEs including English at grade 4 or above, along with a suitable level of numeracy. Relevant industry experience will also be considered.
You may be asked to attend an interview to discuss your interests, experience and ambitions so that we can ensure you choose the best course for you.
After completing this Level 2 horticulture qualification, you can take your next step into the horticultural profession or build on your existing career. Continue your studies by progressing onto one of our Level 3 horticulture qualifications, a garden design course or a hard landscaping programme.
This course is part-funded by the ESFA (Education and Skills Funding Agency) or Greater London Authority (GLA) for those that are eligible.
If you are aged 16, 17 or 18 at the start of the course, your tuition, exams and materials fees will be paid for you in full as long as you meet some basic criteria for UK residence (more information can be found on our Fees and Funding page).
If you are aged 19 or over on the day your course starts, you may be entitled to help with tuition fees subject to criteria. If you receive employment benefits, have a low income, or are studying towards your first substantial qualification, you may be entitled to free tuition. You may need to pay a materials fee if applicable to your course. Find further information about help with tuition fees on our Fees and Funding page.
For some of our courses, we offer a discount for current students. If this is the case, you will see the reduced fee when you select your chosen course campus and start date. To qualify for this discount, you must already be studying another course at Capel Manor College, and be adding this course to your existing programme.
