Knowledge of the varieties, specific marketing methods, or breeding techniques; from vocational to university education, every facet of the floricultural chain is dealt with in a variety of training courses.

University education
Wageningen University is the cradle of academic training and research in floriculture. The courses of study offered there include agro technology, biology or environmental studies. The university also has a continuous program of research into innovations such as energy generating greenhouses, using biosensors to track plant diseases as well as other high tech ‘green’ applications.

Diversity in vocational training
Vocational training is also offered in all shapes and sizes. Those wishing to train as flower breeders, auction employees, product managers or flower and plant buyers, can find an appropriate course. The same applies to future plant cultivation experts seeking to learn how to test crops.

Aspiring florists will find themselves able to choose from a wide range of institutes, where they can learn the trade. For those already active in the world of flowers and who have sufficient experience, there is the opportunity to study for the Master Florist diploma.

Increasing trade knowledge
In addition to regular forms of further education there are also many opportunities to take long or short training and refresher courses. For example, growers can take a course in organic cultivation, where they can pick up all the information they need in a relatively short time. Other institutions contribute to improving knowledge of the assortment, marketing and quality both at home and abroad. Every link in the chain, from auction staff or garden center employees to exporters and retailers, has more than enough opportunity to improve and enhance floral distribution chain knowledge.

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