Growing & Vines
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Gain hands-on experience in propagating plants in a commercial nursery setting over a full year, guided by experienced propagators at Otago Polytechnic.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Central Otago campus, Cromwell
It will take a total of 9 months
This course requires 6 hours per week

Apply hands-on skills to grow various types of plants to saleable grade from seed and cuttings, including native and specialist species.

Demonstrate knowledge and practical skills in commercial nursery processes, including the use of mist and heat beds, glasshouses, and shade houses.

Collect, process, and germinate seeds of native plants, understanding eco-sourcing principles relevant for New Zealand flora.
This year-long course offers practical experience in plant propagation within a commercial nursery environment. Students learn to collect, process, and germinate seeds, eco-source native plants, and propagate a variety of plant species using state-of-the-art nursery facilities. The course covers propagation techniques suitable for vegetables, fruit, native trees, shrubs, and specialist plants. Students are encouraged to pursue personal interests in propagation, ranging from food growing to native plants and perennials. The programme includes local field trips for further inspiration. No prior knowledge is required, and classes run once weekly from February to November at the Central Otago campus in Cromwell.
What you need to know first
No previous qualifications required.

Horticulture
Plant Nursery
Agriculture

Nursery assistant
Horticultural worker
Propagation technician

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.
Growing & Vines
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Gain hands-on experience in propagating plants in a commercial nursery setting over a full year, guided by experienced propagators at Otago Polytechnic.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Central Otago campus, Cromwell
It will take a total of 9 months
This course requires 6 hours per week

Apply hands-on skills to grow various types of plants to saleable grade from seed and cuttings, including native and specialist species.

Demonstrate knowledge and practical skills in commercial nursery processes, including the use of mist and heat beds, glasshouses, and shade houses.

Collect, process, and germinate seeds of native plants, understanding eco-sourcing principles relevant for New Zealand flora.
This year-long course offers practical experience in plant propagation within a commercial nursery environment. Students learn to collect, process, and germinate seeds, eco-source native plants, and propagate a variety of plant species using state-of-the-art nursery facilities. The course covers propagation techniques suitable for vegetables, fruit, native trees, shrubs, and specialist plants. Students are encouraged to pursue personal interests in propagation, ranging from food growing to native plants and perennials. The programme includes local field trips for further inspiration. No prior knowledge is required, and classes run once weekly from February to November at the Central Otago campus in Cromwell.
What you need to know first
No previous qualifications required.

Horticulture
Plant Nursery
Agriculture

Nursery assistant
Horticultural worker
Propagation technician

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.
Home plant propagation
Home plant propagation