New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (General) (Level 3)
Growing & Vines
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A fully supported, online NZQA Level 3 certificate providing foundational education in horticulture, with a focus on plant science, plant selection, plant health, and sustainable growing. Zero fees for domestic students.
STUDY FREE
$ENQUIRE
Interested in this course? Enquire now for Domestic & International pricing
Free study? Yep, it’s possible. Find out if you qualify.
This course starts anytime
NZQA Level 3 Certification (60 Credits)
Entry
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
STUDY FREE
$ENQUIRE
Interested in this course? Enquire now for Domestic & International pricing
Free study? Yep, it’s possible. Find out if you qualify.
This course starts anytime
NZQA Level 3 Certification (60 Credits)
Entry
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Core skills this course teaches
Understand and apply knowledge of plant and soil science
Describe plant structure and processes and apply these to growing plants; describe soil properties and their role in plant growth.
Identify and select plants for horticultural use
Identify, describe, and select plants for various horticultural contexts; understand and use plant naming conventions.
What You're Signing Up For
This free-of-charge, fully supported online qualification provides a comprehensive education on the fundamentals of growing plants. Covering plant and soil science, plant identification and selection, plant health, and sustainable growing, it's suitable for gardening enthusiasts, those wanting to grow food for family, and professionals in the horticulture industry. The qualification creates a clear pathway to further study or careers in areas such as orchards, vineyards, plant nurseries, and garden centres.
Course Content
- Plant and Soil Science: Plant structure and processes, soil properties and their application to growing plants.
- Plant Identification and Selection: Plant characteristics and uses, plant naming conventions, plant selection for horticultural contexts.
- Plant Health: Identification and control of common pests, diseases, disorders, and weeds; solutions to plant health problems.
- Sustainable Growing: Principles and practices of sustainable growing systems, features of natural systems, sustainable plant growing techniques.
What you need to know first
Open entry for domestic students.
Find these employment opportunities
Entry-level roles in orchards, vineyards, plant nurseries, and garden centresHorticultural assistant or technicianCommunity or home garden development
Unlock these industries
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.
