[murrayb]

Retrained last year as a horticulturalist after 30+ years in IT and communications. I am fitter and healthier than I have been in decades. Pay rates in the industry are low but I am building up my own business and enjoying the lifestyle benefits. Thoroughly recommend it.

[dotdashdashdash]

I've looked at doing this myself as gardening and plants are a passion of mine. Would you happen to have any advice?

[murrayb]

I did a 6 months Cert III in horticulture, a Permaculture Design Certificate and read and watched as much as I could. Every day is a school day and I am still learning. Not sure about where you are but here in Western Australia the paid jobs in horticulture are very low paying (my 2 day forklift licence is worth more in the work place) but one of those jobs could be worth considering for the learning opportunity - I have been working part time in a nursery whilst I build up clients for my own garden maintenance business.

[frmbb]

This sounds interesting. Could you give some more information on what is required in terms of training, and work opportunities?

[murrayb]

See my other reply re training, employers here in WA generally want a Cert III minimum. There are jobs available but the pay is pretty poor. There are plenty of industries paying better for equally physical work (albeit not in a garden environment) and not requiring certification.