Propagation (One-day)
Growing & Vines
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
One-day hands-on course in propagating native and exotic plants in a commercial nursery, guided by experienced propagators at Otago Polytechnic's Cromwell campus.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Otago Polytechnic - Central Campus, Cromwell
Core skills this course teaches
Apply basic plant propagation techniques
Learn to process, sow seeds, and propagate plants by cuttings in a commercial nursery environment.
Operate nursery equipment
Gain skills in using mist beds, heat beds, glasshouses, and shade houses for propagation.
Understand plant nursery practices
Identify essential materials, equipment, and processes required for commercial nursery plant propagation.
What You're Signing Up For
This one-day course provides a hands-on native and exotic plant propagation experience in a commercial nursery under the technical guidance of experienced propagators. Learners will process and sow seed, propagate plants by cuttings using a mist shed and heat bed, and work in large glasshouses. All materials and equipment are supplied. Suitable for beginners; no prior knowledge required. Participants will also receive some early season vegetable seedlings to take away.
Course Content
- Processing and sowing seed
- Propagating plants by cuttings
- Using mist shed and heat bed technology
- Working in glasshouses and hardening/shade houses
- Best practices in nursery plant propagation
- Hands-on activities with native and exotic plants
- Health and safety, and appropriate outdoor clothing
- Taking home vegetable seedlings
What you need to know first
No previous qualifications or prior knowledge required.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Horticulture
Agriculture
Nursery Operations
Future employment opportunities might be
Nursery hand
Assistant propagator
Horticultural assistant
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.