The field of horticulture includes some of the most technical aspects of agriculture. Northwest growers use elementary principles of mathematics, chemistry, biology, engineering, and electronics to produce some of the best ornamental plants grown in the United States. Oregon ranks third in the nation in wholesale sales of ornamental plants.
Horticulture is an important business.
Annual wholesale sales of ornamental plants in Oregon exceeded one-half billion dollars in 1998. Home owners and US industries spend large sums of money to beautify their surroundings. Indoor and outdoor gardening continues to increase as leisure time increases and individuals become more aware of the environmental benefits of ornamental plants and flowers. Even in difficult economic times this industry continues to grow. Employment Opportunities Positions are available for horticultural graduates in the areas of production, marketing, research, pest management, landscape design and management, floriculture, teaching, government inspection, the health care industry, public gardens and many other related industries.