Landscape Horticulturist

Landscape horticulturists, in consultation with clients, work with other trades to carry out landscaping operations and design in a variety of environments. This includes residential, commercial and public grounds, playgrounds, golf courses, garden centres, tree nurseries, greenhouses and interior landscapes.Landscape horticulturists work with machinery and equipment ranging from simple hand tools such as pruning shears and sprayers to heavy-duty trucks, tractors, loaders and graders. They may be responsible for the routine maintenance of equipment. Since landscape gardeners also work with pesticides and fertilizers, they must be aware of government regulations restricting their use and the toxic or hazardous effects the chemicals may have.Graduates of the landscape horticulturist apprenticeship program are certified journeypersons who are able to:

• practice environmental stewardship principles,
• consult with clients on all aspects of landscaping,
• provide advice to customers on plant selection and care,
• use trade-related tools and equipment,
• identify plants and evaluate plant health,
• install and maintain turfgrass,
• trim and prune hedges, trees and shrubs,
• mitigate plant diseases and insect problems,
• apply fertilizers and pesticides,
• amend poor soil conditions,
• assess and prepare construction sites,
• construct and maintain landscape structures,
• install ponds and drainage systems,
• install retaining walls, paths and patios,
• install operate and maintain irrigation systems, and
• work in all aspects of greenhouse and nursery production.

Those authorized to perform the restricted activities of this designated trade include:

• Sponsored Apprentices,
• Certified Journeypersons
• Individuals deemed qualified by their employer, and
• Self-Employed individuals.

For complete information, see Restricted Activities and Classes of Individuals.