The ARC Horticulture Program prepares students for self-employment or employment with production nurseries, retail garden centers, landscape contractors, arborists, park departments, golf courses, irrigation companies or as maintenance groundskeeper or horticulture consultant. Students receive a formal education in basic plant science, plant identification, soil science, and plant pests. After completing the first year of training, students elect an option in either landscape or nursery practices. The Landscape Industry Option builds skills and knowledge in the design and installation of landscape and turf grass systems, irrigation and sprinkler systems, fertilization, pruning, the use of power equipment and the law and regulations for pest control operations. The Nursery Industry Option emphasizes plant propagation techniques, greenhouse management, plant merchandising and installation, maintenance and customer relations.
Work experience is required.