Workplace Spotlight
What is it like to work in a nursery?
Nurseries serve as specialised facilities dedicated to the propagation, cultivation, and early growth stages of various plant species. They produce a wide range of plants, including ornamental flowers, trees, shrubs, fruits, vegetables, crops, and even rare or endangered species.
Nurseries are valuable to many different people and industries, including home gardeners, landscapers, farmers, foresters, conservationists, scientists, and commercial growers.
No two nurseries are the same, but they do tend to have some things in common:
- Patience is key – growing plants is a long process, but also highly rewarding.
- You’ll be doing some work outdoors – many roles in nurseries require you to work outside or in greenhouses.
- They’re more common in rural areas – but demand for greener city spaces means you’ll find nurseries in metro areas too.
Cultivate and supply healthy plants for various needs
The primary purpose of a nursery is to provide an optimal environment for young plants to develop strong root systems, healthy stems, and robust foliage before they are transplanted into their permanent outdoor locations or larger containers.
Key tasks
- Propagate seeds and cuttings
- Water, fertilise, and monitor growth
- Manage pests and diseases
- Maintain appropriate growing conditions
- Assist customers with plant selection
- Organise inventory and label plants
- Prepare plants for sale or transport
- Research new cultivation techniques
You can find nurseries in the agriculture, forestry, and fishing industry
Nurseries are generally found in the agriculture, forestry, and fishing industry. Different types of nurseries can include plant propagators, ornamental growers, and conservation facilities.
You can expect regular hours and on-site work
Regular hours | Work on-site | Jobs in all areas | Moderate job growth
The operating hours of a nursery can vary based on location and season. They are typically open to the public during normal business hours, but some work may be required outside these times.
On-site work is more common in nurseries due to the hands-on nature of many of the tasks involved. However, some administrative or planning tasks can be handled remotely.
Nurseries can be found in both rural and metropolitan areas, but they are often more common in rural or regional locations. This is because these areas typically have more available land for outdoor growing and lower land costs, making them suitable for larger-scale nursery operations.
How do we expect working in a nursery to change in the future?
Nurseries are set to see changes in the future shaped by technology, environmental concerns, and evolving customer preferences.
Many nurseries are adopting smart tools and data analysis to make things easier and more efficient. They might use sensors to water plants and keep a close watch on plant health with digital tools. This not only makes operations smoother but also saves resources and improves the quality of plants.
Online platforms for plant sales and virtual consultations are gaining traction, offering convenience and accessibility to a wider audience. Nurseries are also becoming hubs of knowledge, providing digital resources and advice on plant care and gardening. The transition to online spaces ensures that nurseries remain relevant and accessible in an increasingly interconnected world.
Sustainability is another big focus for the future. Nurseries are going greener by using organic methods, using fewer chemicals, and saving water with smarter watering systems. Due to climate change, nurseries are also tasked with growing species that can handle different weather conditions. Some nurseries are even using genetic engineering to improve plants, including making them disease-resistant or high-yield. This brings new possibilities for nurseries to lead in sustainability and conservation.