RHS Level 3 Certificate in The Principles of Plant Growth, Garden Planning and Applied Propagation

Course overview

 The horticultural industries span many disciplines, from the production of plants for planting, to the production of fruit, salads, and vegetables. An important sector of this industry is the management of gardens and designed landscapes. The horticulturists who work in such settings are involved in the scientific study of plants, the preservation of heritage, the propagation of new plant material, and the pursuit of best practice to inform their management decisions.

The purpose and content of this Level 3 course supports specialist and industry-specific pathways informed by the findings of the Ornamental Horticultural Round Table Group (OHRG). It is aimed at those progressing in horticultural roles or having a specialist personal interest in the supervision and development of gardens and landscapes, for example public gardens, botanical gardens, heritage gardens, private gardens, maintenance and landscaping along with community green spaces.

 

This qualification meets the needs of amateur gardeners and professional horticulturists alike. It also provides the opportunity for personal development, including the changing of careers and engagement in learning. It offers an opportunity to develop transferable skills such as problem-solving, implementing management plans and programmes, and communication as part of applied learning.

 

The diverse range of plants in the College’s 400-acre estate, together with purpose-designed buildings, including lecture rooms, laboratories, library facilities, and computer suites, all provide an ideal environment for horticulture students.

The course will cover:
  • Unit 1: Horticultural Heritage, Plant Knowledge, Plant Selection and Cultivation and Plant Propagation
  • Unit 2: Garden Styles and Specialist Arenas, Productive Growing, Garden Management and Gardens, People and Spaces 

 

Use this link for further details about rhs qualifications 

This qualification will be entirely assessed by a summative, unseen written examination for each unit. 
 
  • Examination 1 will cover Unit 1
  • Examination 2 will cover Unit 2

For admission to the RHS L3 Certificate in the principles of plant growth, garden planning and applied propagation course at Merrist Wood College, applicants must meet the following entry requirements:

 

Level 2 RHS Certificate in the principles of plant growth and development: Applicants MUST have completed the RHS L2 Certificate in principles of plant growth and development. This ensures a foundational understanding of horticultural practices and techniques.

Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 19 years old to enrol in the course.

Educational Qualifications: Although there are no formal academic requirements, level 2 literacy and numeracy skills will be required for successful completion of the course and exam requirements.

Interest in Horticulture: A genuine passion for plants, gardening, and the natural environment is essential. Applicants should demonstrate enthusiasm and a willingness to learn and engage in horticultural activities

The RHS Level 3 Practical qualification or other Level 3 or Level 4 qualifications in subjects such as plant production, garden design, landscape construction or foundation degree courses.

The RHS Level 3 Certificates are also recognised nationally and internationally and provide a route into careers in the horticultural industry.

Stout footwear is recommended for outdoor sessions. Current students have found that a camera is useful for keeping a records of plants and techniques studied on the course.

The course will run from 9:30 to 15:00.

Delivery Day: Thursday 23-24. Disclaimer – please note the delivery day of a program can change each academic year, therefore we will not be able to confirm the delivery date for the following academic year until the summer term.

Course Starts in 75 Days

Thu 4 September 2025

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Alternatively enrol by phone quoting OC02CP0A300P

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