This course provides key knowledge and skills required for successful organic growing. The overall aim is to build ecosystems, promote biodiversity and increase soil and plant health, instead of relying on artificial fertilisers and poisonous sprays.

We explore the latest trends in sustainable farming, both internationally and in New Zealand. A practical, science based approach is used to separate myth from fact, while exploring a wide range of organic techniques and methods.

You will be introduced to a range of design and management systems that provide useful guidelines and tools for ongoing management, planning and diagnosis – whether applied to your property layout or a new production venture.

Who Is This Course For?

Course content can be applied not only to food crops -  but to the cultivation of all ornamental plants - trees, shrubs, flowers and gardens in general.

The course will therefore appeal to keen gardeners, plant growers, landscapers, lifestyle-block owners, permaculture planners and habitat-restoration workers, as well as those seeking a healthier alternative to conventional food production.

Organic philosophies also embrace principles of kaitiakitanga, which may interest Tangata whenua  involved with land management.

What Will You Learn?

• Basic principles of organic systems
• Historic development of organic horticulture
• Introduction to permaculture
• Organic horticulture in New Zealand
• Organic certification
• Career paths in organic horticulture
• Organic weed control methods
• Soil components and soil management practices
• Organic fertilisers and growth stimulants
• Crop rotation and green manures
• Composting
• Establishing and maintaining natural shelter
• Crop diversification and companion planting (polyculture)
• Bee-keeping and attracting beneficial insects
• Integrated pest and disease management (Level 4)
• Planning and developing an organic property (Level 4)

What Will You Gain?

• Broad knowledge of sustainable horticulture
• Skills you can use in commercial organic growing or in the home garden
• Unit Standards towards a National Certificate in Horticulture (Organics) (Level 3 and/or Level 4)
• Ongoing support and friendship
• Opportunity to visit other organic properties and observe them in operation

What Qualification Will You Receive?

This course is based on NZQA Unit Standards. In addition to attending the tutorials and workshops, you will need to complete practical and theory assignments in your own time. Subject to completing assessment requirements, students will gain a Telford Certificate in Organic Horticulture (Level 3 or 4).

Programme Delivery

Agriculture New Zealand part-time courses are interactive and fun. The Organic Horticulture Course is delivered by specialist tutors who are involved in organic production, and is covered in two modules.

Our tutors facilitate excellent learning opportunities using a variety of techniques including:

• Interactive and stimulating tutorials
• Group discussions and learning
• Practical horticulture activities
• Case studies from real life situations
• Field Trips to organic growers
• Projects relevant to your areas of interest.

Course Duration

Classes are usually held once a week, with additional field trips and practical sessions where required.

This programme may be delivered in conjunction with one of our partners.

To register your interest for an organics course, call 0800 4 SKILLS (0800 475 455) or email agnztraining@pggwrightson.co.nz

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