HORTICULTURE Introduction Horticulture deals with the production, growth, distribution and use of fruits and vegetables. It encompasses cultivation of plants, vegetables, flowers, fruits, herbs, shurbs, bushes, ornamental trees and landscaping of gardens, maintaining nurseries, green houses and gardens. Nature of Work Horticulturists Work and conduct research in the disciplines of plant propagation and cultivation, crop production, plant breeding and genetic engineering, plant biochemistry and plant physiology. Generally work with fruits, berries, nuts, vegetables, flowers, trees, shrubs and turfs. Work to improve crop yield, quality, nutritional value, resistance to insects, diseases and environmental stresses. Work in post harvest shelf life and quality management of cut flowers, in vitro improvement of flower crops as well as in protective cultivation of flower crops. Maintenance of parks, public gardens, official lawns etc. They work in botanical gardens and supervise the complete operation. They decide what, when and where to plant and determine ideal methods for planting and preservation. Specializations Some horticulturists specialize in the cultivation of flowers and develop new varieties. Many specialize in decorative plant cultivation, in the production of saplings of flower and fruit trees, maintaining orchards and vineyards. Education Admission Requirements Degree Duration M.Sc. Ph.D. B.Sc. 4 Years 2 Years 3-5 Years FSc. Pre-medical (Bio-Chem-Phy) Equivalence if other than FSc (A’Level etc..) 50% marks Qualities Required Job Opportunities Be able to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Interest towards nature and physical stamina are two most important qualities that one should have as one has to work in farms, fields and forests. Most of agricultural scientists need an understanding of basic business principles, the ability to apply statistical techniques and the ability to use computers to analyze data and to control biological and chemical processing. Government Departments Agricultural farms Green houses Nurseries or golf courses or in public gardens Click here to see the list of the universities/colleges offering HORTICULTURE at Master level Click here to see the list of the universities/colleges offering Different disciplines in Agricultural Sciences at Bachelor level Click here to see the list of the universities/colleges offering Different disciplines in Agricultural Sciences at Master level Views: 18269 Related Careers Agriculture Agronomy Food Technology Forestry Horticulture Plant Pathology Soil Sciences view All Careers