Flower Bulbs Education and Training
Learning is essential for those in the floral bulb trade
In 2002, the Netherlands grew about 10 billion flower bulbs for sale, or 65% of the total world production of bulbs, and those with flower bulbs education and training can join the ranks of these flower producers and have promising careers. Whether you wish to grow American bulbs or sell bulbs from another country, it takes a great deal of knowledge to succeed.Those who wish to sell retail or wholesale flower bulbs should have a passion for the plant. They should also pursue:
1. A degree in horticulture, with an emphasis on floral bulbs
2. Membership in horticulture organizations, including those specializing in floral bulbs
3. Publications offering ongoing information about horticulture and flower bulb education and training
Seek out a degree in flower bulb horticulture
A career in selling and buying flower bulbs ideally begins with a degree in horticulture science. Look for a college with hands-on training in propagation, growing, creating hybrids and more, but don't neglect business courses as well.
Try: Find a college near you offering studies in horticulture science through a site like U.S. College Search or Peterson's.
Join organizations helpful for flower bulb importers and exporters
Professional horticulture organizations do much more than provide networking for those selling retail or discount flower bulbs. A good organization also offers learning opportunities in the way of journals, books, CDs and DVDs, workshops and seminars. There is a wide variety of associations appropriate for those in the retail or wholesale flower bulb business.
Try: The American Daffodil Society encourages research and education about daffodils. The American Horticultural Society offers training and education for all types of horticulturists, including those specializing in bulbs. The International Bulb Society is an educational and scientific organization for professionals in the field.
Read publications for bulk flower bulb growers and sellers
There are a myriad of magazines for those in the retail and discount flower bulb market; some of the finest are general horticulture publications, but there are also excellent resources focusing solely on floral bulbs. Find several suitable publications in order to keep up with the latest news, trends and innovations.
Try: The Flower Bulb Research Program at Cornell University offers free newsletters for the bulb industry. The American Society for Horticulture Science publishes a variety of journals for serious horticulturists.
- Perhaps the fastest growing area of interest for growers of hyacinth, narcissus, lily, gladiola and tulip bulbs is pesticides. As the world view becomes more negative about the use of chemicals, more and more growers are relying on herbicides, making education in this area essential.
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