Horticultural Nursery Assistants, also known as Nursery Workers (Horticulture), play a crucial role in the propagation, cultivation, and maintenance of plants in horticultural nurseries. They perform a variety of routine tasks to ensure the healthy growth of plants and contribute to the overall success of the nursery.

Indicative Skill Level:

The skill level required for most occupations in the Horticultural Nursery Assistant unit group is commensurate with the following qualifications:

In Australia:

- AQF Certificate I

- Compulsory secondary education (ANZSCO Skill Level 5)

In New Zealand:

- NZQF Level 1 qualification

- Compulsory secondary education (ANZSCO Skill Level 5)

Tasks Include:

• Loading, unloading, and moving nursery supplies and equipment.
• Assisting with potting-up and transplanting flowers, shrubs, and trees.
• Assisting with propagating, planting, and potting seeds, seedlings, and rooted cuttings.
• Monitoring plants for healthy growth and identifying potential weed, insect, disease, and fertilizer issues.
• Tending to plants by watering and weeding.
• Adjusting mist irrigation systems, shade, and ventilation to create optimal growing conditions.
• Harvesting and packaging plants for sale and transportation.

Occupation: 843311 Horticultural Nursery Assistant

As a Horticultural Nursery Assistant, your role involves assisting in the propagation, cultivation, and harvesting of plants in a horticultural nursery. You may also be involved in propagating and cultivating plants for forestry purposes. This occupation requires a skill level of 5.

By working as a Horticultural Nursery Assistant, you will gain valuable experience in the horticulture industry and contribute to the production of high-quality plants. Your attention to detail and ability to follow instructions will be essential in maintaining the health and vitality of the nursery's plant stock.

Furthermore, your responsibilities will include maintaining the nursery's equipment and supplies, ensuring a clean and organized work environment, and adhering to health and safety guidelines.

Becoming a Horticultural Nursery Assistant can be a stepping stone to further career opportunities in the horticulture industry. With experience and additional training, you may progress to roles such as Nursery Manager, Horticulturist, or Landscape Gardener.

Overall, being a Horticultural Nursery Assistant offers a rewarding and fulfilling career path for individuals passionate about working with plants and contributing to the growth of the horticultural sector in Australia.