Sustainable Greenhouse Production

Career Description
Sustainable greenhouse production graduates help produce a variety of ornamental plants such as bedding plants, holiday plants (Easter Lilies, Poinsettias, etc.), and plants for special occasions. The greenhouse facilities range from small, family run operations to large commercial production greenhouses. The greenhouse industry is quickly becoming a high-tech industry with computers, robotics, and other exciting innovations. People who appreciate natural beauty, enjoy caring for plants and flowers, and have an attention for detail are particularly well suited for this career.

Program Information
Students enrolled in the one-year Sustainable Greenhouse Production Program will learn how to schedule, produce, and care for a wide variety of plants grown commercially in the Upper Midwest as well as how to properly construct and manage a greenhouse production facility. A state-of-the-art greenhouse and laboratory provide the opportunity to learn in real-life situations.

Program Learning Outcomes
Graduate will be able to:
1. Identify and practice safe use of tools, equipment and supplies used in horticulture careers
2. Identify regional and Minnesota plants by common name, genus and species
3. Propagate, grow, and maintain plants in horticultural production systems
4. Identify and prescribe sustainable options in horticulture which benefit the environment while maintaining productivity and economic viability
5. Design greenhouse production structures and systems
6. Apply effective communication and interpersonal skills with co-workers, supervisors, suppliers and customers

Admissions
The Sustainable Greenhouse Production Program is offered as a full-time day program. Because of the sequencing of courses, it is best to begin this program Fall semester.

Transfer Opportunities
Many horticulture courses can be transferred to a variety of four-year colleges and universities. Because each college has its own requirements, always check with an advisor or counselor about transferability of specific courses to these other colleges.

Career Titles
This program will help students prepare for a wide range of careers, including greenhouse owner/manager, greenhouse foreman, propagator, pest control, coordinator, plant sales, plant and supply buyer, greenhouse supply, representative, and plant consultant.

Employment Opportunities
Career opportunities include greenhouse production, plant propagation, greenhouse management and plant brokering.

Gainful Employment (pdf)

Sustainable Greenhouse Production, Diploma - Program Planning Form (pdf)