As the economy continues to recover, there should be a demand for trained Nursery Workers during all the 1990s. Weekend, holiday, and overtime work is common during the summer and growing season which could run from February through August. Some employers have fringe benefits such as paid vacations, sick leave, holidays, and health insurance. Most employers require that even beginners have some knowledge of how to care for the plants they grow. Helpful high school courses include chemistry, biology, and botany.
Most workers start in entry level labor or sales jobs and work under an experienced horticulturist.
Some employers require new employees to have taken courses given by community colleges or by the California Association of Nurserymen. In some cases, a two to four year college degree in horticulture may be necessary to advance to management positions. Those looking for this job can read newspapers or telephone books, especially along the coast from San Mateo County south to San Diego where most of the largest growers are located. Summer or after school jobs can lead to full-time jobs with the same employer. Applying directly to firms is a way of finding work.