Horticulture Professional Development Program
The Horticulture Professional Development Program is a summer program that combines hands-on learning with coursework learning opportunities to those interested in pursuing careers in the horticultural industry.
Our Horticulture Professional Development Program offers hands-on learning alongside our talented staff. The program is tailored towards high school aged students and college students pursuing a career in horticulture. Participants can participate in learning activities, including field trips to regional gardens, conferences, lectures; and/or self-guided study.
The program is offered free of charge and participants earn an hourly wage. Applicants must be at least 14 years of age and live within reasonable travel distance of Gardners, Pennsylvania and have reliable transportation. Must have the ability to lift 50 pounds and work in varying weather conditions. Applicants under the age of 18 must have parent/guardian approval to participate. A limited number of applicants will be accepted into the program. If selected, candidates must pass a drug screening test to complete their admission. Horticulture Professional Development Program participants are employees of McCleaf Landscaping, llc, therefore proof of citizenship and/or employment eligibility will be required before beginning the program.
During the program, participants are offered study in six core areas, with a mix of coursework, hands-on practical experiences, field trips, and certification opportunities.
Core areas include:
- Safety
- Plant Biology, Taxonomy, and Morphology
- Plant Health Care & Integrated Pest Management
- Plant Identification and Culture
- Design & Landscape Maintenance
- Professionalism