Commercial gardener

What does a horticultural worker do? – Tasks and work environment

A horticultural worker primarily works with cultivating, caring for, and managing plants in greenhouses and outdoor environments. Common tasks include sowing, planting, watering, fertilizing, and pruning various plants such as flowers, shrubs, trees, and vegetables. The role also involves pest control, harvesting, sorting, and preparing plants for sale to customers or wholesalers. The work environment can vary between large commercial nurseries and smaller family-run businesses, often performed in both greenhouses and outdoors. Seasonal variations are common, meaning that workload can be higher in spring and summer.

Salary development over time

Horticultural workers have experienced steady salary increases over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,500 kronor per month, rising to 27 600 kronor in 2023 and further to 29 300 kronor in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 11% over the period. The salary growth can be explained by increased demand for sustainable and locally produced food, as well as a greater awareness of the importance of plants for the environment and health. At the same time, skill requirements in the profession have risen, for example through increased use of technology and environmentally friendly cultivation methods. Despite these positive trends, some gender differences remain, with women still earning less than their male colleagues. Regional variations occur, but national trends indicate a cautious yet stable salary increase for the profession.

Horticultural worker salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 29 300 kr/month
• Lowest salary: 28,000 kr/month
• Highest salary: 30,300 kr/month
• Hourly wage (average): 176 kr
• Gender differences: Men 30,300 kr, women 28,000 kr (women earn 92% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Limited available data, but variations may occur depending on demand and local labor markets

Education and qualifications

To work as a horticultural worker, a high school education in gardening or related fields is usually required. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers prefer applicants who have completed relevant internships or trainee programs. It is also common to supplement with certification courses in plant knowledge or environmental management to strengthen qualifications.

• High school education: Natural resources program, horticulture specialization (3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in plant protection, environment, and irrigation
• Internships: Practical placements or apprenticeships are often advantageous
• Prerequisites: Basic high school eligibility is recommended
• Self-study: Opportunities to deepen knowledge through online or evening courses

Common benefits and compensation

Horticultural workers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes discounts on plants or gardening products. Some employers also provide opportunities for further training, flexible working hours, and overtime pay during busy seasons. Pension schemes and insurance are common, especially with larger companies or within the public sector.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for horticultural workers is characterized by seasonal variations and relatively high competition for permanent positions, especially in regions with many gardening companies. Limited automation options in parts of the profession make practical experience and specialized knowledge important competitive factors. The industry also increasingly demands environmental awareness and sustainable cultivation methods, which may require additional training. The physical work environment can be strenuous, particularly during peak season, and tasks are often weather-dependent. Despite these challenges, there are good opportunities for those who are flexible, proactive, and have a genuine interest in plants.

Tips for aspiring horticultural workers

To succeed as a horticultural worker, it is beneficial to have a strong interest in plants and nature, as well as a resilient and meticulous personality. Seeking internships during training to build experience and networks is advisable, as practical knowledge is highly valued. Being flexible and open to seasonal work increases chances of employment, especially in spring and summer. Teamwork skills are important since work is often done in teams, and a solution-oriented approach is needed when facing unforeseen challenges like weather changes or pest outbreaks. Staying updated on new gardening trends and eco-friendly practices can also provide a competitive edge and contribute to personal growth in the profession.

Key facts about Horticultural Workers

• Education level: High school education in gardening recommended
• Work environment: Greenhouses and outdoors, often physically demanding
• Work form: Seasonal variations and full-time/part-time options available
• Demand: 360 registered job openings in the profession
• Gender distribution: Women earn on average 92% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities exist to advance to supervisory roles, specialize in areas such as plant protection or cultivation techniques, or take responsibility for larger projects within horticulture. Some choose further education to become gardeners or start their own businesses in the industry. Forecasts from the Employment Service do not provide exact assessments for horticultural workers due to limited data, but demand remains stable with 360 registered job openings. The industry's future is influenced by trends in sustainability, organic cultivation, and urban green spaces, which can open new opportunities for those willing to further their education or broaden their skills.

Frequently asked questions about Horticultural Workers

• What does a horticultural worker earn?
  - A horticultural worker has an average salary of 29 300 kronor per month.
• How has the salary development been for horticultural workers?
  - Salaries have increased from 26,500 kronor in 2022 to 29 300 kronor in 2024.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, men earn on average 30,300 kronor and women 28,000 kronor per month.
• What education is required to become a horticultural worker?
  - A high school education in gardening is recommended, often via the natural resources program.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work environment varies and can be physically demanding and weather-dependent, with work in greenhouses and outdoors.
• What are the future prospects?
  - There are 360 available jobs in the profession and demand is stable, but exact forecasts are lacking.
• What is the highest salary for a horticultural worker?
  - The highest salary is 30,300 kronor per month, applicable to men employed as private-sector employees.