Chapter 4 The Horticulture Industry 101
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
Landscaping
Landscaping challenges horticulturists to produce and maintain visually
pleasing and useful environments. To do this, the landscape industry designs,
installs, and maintains landscapes for its customers. Career opportunities in
landscaping include:
• Landscape architects and designers who create landscape designs to
meet the objectives of the customer.
• Landscape managers who facilitate the installation and maintenance of
landscape designs. Landscape managers often need to coordinate the
work of other contractors and manage all aspects of installation and
maintenance contracts.
• Irrigation technicians who design and install irrigation systems to
provide water for the plantings.
• Hardscape contractors who design and install hardscapes (constructed
areas around a building or in a landscape, such as pavers, patios,
sidewalks, and retaining walls).
• Water feature designers who design and install water elements (ponds,
waterfalls, and pools).
• Snow removal contractors who remove snow from commercial or
residential sites using plows and other equipment.
• Landscape lighting contractors who design and install lighting for
nightscapes.
These contractors and technicians work together to meet the goals
set by the commercial or residential owner of a landscape. They also rely
on nurseries to provide quality plant material for establishing successful
landscapes.
Landscape work is done outdoors in all
types of weather and climates, Figure 4-9.
Landscape managers and other landscape
workers should enjoy working outdoors
and with a team of people. Landscape
workers usually work long hours during the
peak season or during times of a weather-
related emergency. One of the best parts of
working in the landscape industry is seeing
a newly installed landscape and the beauty
it provides to a site.
Interiorscaping
Interiorscaping involves the design,
installation, and maintenance of plants
inside buildings. Interiorscapes (indoor
landscapes) improve the look and feel
of interior spaces. Homes, businesses,
classrooms, and hospitals all welcome
additions of plants to their spaces.
Joe Dejvice/Shutterstock.com
Figure 4-9. Landscape work is done outdoors in all types of
weather. Landscapers often work in teams to accomplish work
more efficiently. What are some advantages and disadvantages to
working outdoors?