Lifelong Learning Certificate of Western Horticulture
The Certificate of Western Horticulture allows motivated home gardeners and those seeking entry level positions in the horticulture industry to expand their skills and understand the specific needs of Utah landscapes and gardens during all 4 seasons. Certificate enrollees will better understand design, how to successfully choose plants, and how to grow and maintain their home landscape. The diverse and seasonal curriculum will assist students in mastering gardening techniques best suited for Utah gardens through lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on experiences specific to the climate and conditions found in the West. Enjoy learning from local experts, and sharing your experiences with other like-minded gardeners.
To complete the required classes for the Certificate, students may choose from one of the two following options.
- Botany for Gardeners
- Residential Landscape Design
- Irrigation Basics
- Garden Maintenance
- Pruning 101
- Soils: Dig Deeper into Gardening
- 101 Plants to Know
- Botany for Gardeners
- Residential Landscape Design
- Irrigation Basics
- Garden Maintenance
- Pruning 101
- Soils: Dig Deeper into Gardening
- Landscape Trees and Shrubs
- Perennials – Spring and Summer Bloomers
- Perennials – Late Summer and Fall Bloomers
In addition to required classes, students need to take 2 electives. There is a three year time limit to complete certificate. Certificate students pay a $25 registration fee to cover administrative costs.
Register today for the certificate
Questions about the Certificate of Western Horticulture? Find answers below, or contact us for more information.
What is the certificate?
Certificate showing completion of a group of horticulture classes. The classes are designed to provide broad overview of residential landscape gardening practices so home gardeners can be more successful.
How long do you have to complete the certificate?
You have 3 years to complete classes.
Why was certificate developed?
There is nothing comparable being offered for serious gardeners. Other programs are 2 and 4 year degrees through USU, and the Master Gardener program which is a 40 hour training program that has a 40 hour volunteer component.
Who is the certificate designed for?
Students new to gardening, new to SLC valley, serious home gardeners, and people entering horticulture industry with no prior horticulture education. Focus is on residential landscaping.
What are required classes?
- Botany for Gardeners (6 hrs)
- Residential Landscape Design (18 hrs)
- Irrigation Basics (4 hrs)
- Garden Maintenance (6 hrs)
- Pruning 101 (6 hrs)
- Soils: Dig Deeper into Gardening (4 hrs)
- 101 Plants to Know or Perennials and Landscape Trees and Shrubs (14 hrs)
What electives are offered?
Two electives are required and the list continues to grow. Examples of elective offerings include:
- Ornamental Grasses
- Fabulous Fruit Trees
- Rose Pruning
- Grow Your Own Herbs
- Gardening in Containers
- Rose Gardening
How much does it cost to take all the classes in the certificate program?
Approximate cost to take all required classes is approximately $1000 including the $25 certificate registration cost. Cost of electives varies based on class.
Where are classes held?
Classes are held at 540 Arapeen Drive, Research Park, SLC and at Red Butte Garden.
How often are classes offered?
Classes are offered 1—2 times a year, and most are seasonal since there are hands-on components to most classes.
Can I get credit for a class I took, that is part of the certificate, before signing up for certificate?
Yes. If it's been less than a year and you contact Lifelong Learning, we will research your class records and give you credit if applicable.
You do not have to be enrolled in a certificate program to take a class. Everyone is welcome in our certificate courses!
