Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth and Development

If you're looking to deepen your knowledge of horticulture and explore a career in the industry, the RHS Level 2 is the ideal choice. Whether you’re seeking a professional path in horticulture or simply wish to enrich your personal gardening skills, this flexible, part-time course fits easily around your schedule.

The RHS Level 2 is awarded to those who successfully complete two core certificates:

1. RHS Certificate in Practical Horticulture
2. RHS Certificate in Principles of Plant Growth and Development

The RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth and Development, provides learners with a solid theoretical grounding.  This offers an understanding behind the science of plants, such as how they function, nutrition, health, adaptations and various planting styles.

Learners will also develop an understanding of the horticultural industry and the vital role plants play in enhancing biodiversity. 

What You’ll Learn:

• Plant Botany and Physiology – Study the basic biology and structure of plants, and understand the processes that enable them to grow.
• Plant Science – Explore the scientific principles that underpin horticultural techniques and practices.
• Plant Health and Nutrition – Learn how plants maintain good health, and the essential nutrients they need to grow strong and vibrant.

Course Cost

£1150.

Topics covered include:

Unit 1

• Plant Science 1
• Plant Health
• Plant Nutrition
• Plant Specification

Unit 2

• Plant science 2
• Planting Styles
• Horticulture and Society
• Biodiversity

The course is assessed through written exams throughout the year, allowing you to gradually build your knowledge and confidence.

Whether you're interested in pursuing a career in horticulture or simply enhancing your gardening expertise, the RHS Level 2 offers the knowledge and qualifications to take your skills to the next level.

Attainment of both the Certificate in Practical Horticulture and the Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth and Development will result in learners achieving the Level 2 Certificate in the Principles and Practices of Horticulture.

Highly valued by employers, the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles and Practices of Horticulture consists of two individual qualifications; a practical-based and knowledge-based qualification.

In order to get the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles and Practices of Horticulture, learners need to enrol on both qualifications (2 days per week to complete the qualification in one academic year) or over 2 years one day per week.

In order to achieve this qualification, learners must complete and achieve two examinations (one paper for unit 1in February and one paper for unit 2 in June). 

• Each paper is a 2 hour examination.
• Each paper has 3 components:
• A multi-choice questionnaire (20%)
• Short answer questions (50%)
• 2 essays (30%) 

There are no pre-requisites for entry to this qualification level.  

Ideal for those looking to pursue a career in horticulture or stretch and challenge skills for personal interest

This level is also suitable for those already working in the industry who would like to formalise and expand their existing skills by gaining a professional qualification.

• This course requires 90% minimum attendance so learners can be ready for their assessments
• As part of this course, learners will need to allocate one day per week for homework
• A laptop or tablet is required to fully participate in lessons and access content